Odd Dilema

[Chantal Marchon]

I am thinking of submitting one of my stories to a major mag. The problem is that they pay only $100 for the story and assume all copy rites and publishing rites forever. So basically, where most magazines are only buying the publishing rites for a one time use for $100-$500. This mag. gets to use it ad infintum- (screen plays, audio, anthologies) and I would not likely see anymore $.

Now I am actually considering submitting one of my stories any way, with a few changes, because they have such an incredibly huge subscriber base- Over 100,000 and it would mean a lot of people would see my story and lead to possible other story deals.

Should I or shouldn't I?

 

[unclej]

there's a couple of things to ask youself, i suppose. do you think the story has serious theatrical or film possibilities? also, have you submitted it to other magazines that don't attach it forever and if so were you rejected? are you pursuing writing as a career and would having a story published like this open other doors for you?

with those answers in front of you you should be able to make an informed decision. good luck with it. it's cool to be considered isn't it?

 

[patient1]

It can be pretty tough breaking in to that arena. I guess I would if I were convinced that they would actually publish it in a timely fashion.

 

[Trail48]

In my business I will sometimes sacrifice profit for future oportunities, it is not that uncommon

 

[Weird Harold]

I am thinking of submitting one of my stories to a major mag. The problem is that they pay only $100 for the story and assume all copy rites and publishing rites forever. So basically, where most magazines are only buying the publishing rites for a one time use for $100-$500. This mag. gets to use it ad infintum- (screen plays, audio, anthologies) and I would not likely see anymore $.

You have to consider which is worth more to you:

The immediate cash and loss of any future royalties in exchange for exposure and a publishing history.

OR

Penniless pride and hope of interest from a less exploitive publisher.

Unless I already had plans or expectations for expanding the story into a novel or screenplay, I'd take the money and run. I believe you can still expand or modify the story without infringing on the copyright you sell them -- you are only selling a specific set of words, not the basic plot or idea.