MC-Guide
Content Writing
Website 71: Themaliterarysociety.com
How Can You Earn Money Writing For “themaliterarysociety.com” Website
This guide shows you, step by step, how a beginner can learn to pitch and sell stories to themaliterarysociety.com.
You will learn what themaliterarysociety.com wants, how to test your idea, how to write a pitch, and how payment roughly works. You can use this like a small SOP.
Guide: How to Submit to THEMA and Earn from Your Writing (Beginner → Paid)
This guide walks step-by-step through the real process of preparing a submission for THEMA (The Maliterary Society), understanding their theme-based format, following formatting & postal rules, and improving your chances to be published and paid.
Practical, example-driven, and full of templates you can copy — this is intended for beginners who want to turn short stories, flash, essays, art, or poems into published clips and small payments while building a portfolio.
Section 1 · Meet THEMA
What THEMA is and why theme-based journals matter
THEMA (The Maliterary Society) is a theme-generated literary journal that has published short stories, short-shorts, poetry, essays, and art since 1988. Each issue centers on a premise or theme (for example: “Fortune Cookies”) that contributors respond to in creative ways. The theme focus makes THEMA a unique market: editors are looking for pieces that fit a specific creative challenge, not general submissions.
Because it is theme-driven, strong submissions are not necessarily the longest or flashiest pieces — they are the ones that respond cleverly and deeply to the issue’s premise. That means a well-shaped 400-700 word short-short can perform as well as a longer story if it fits the theme.
- Theme-based issues — read the current and upcoming theme before you write.
- Mixed media — fiction, nonfiction, poetry, art & photography all welcome when they match the theme.
- Traditional submission routes — postal mail is accepted and encouraged; some international submissions use email (details below).
A focused theme can act as a creative constraint that helps you produce a tighter, more publishable piece quickly. Instead of guessing what an editor wants, you can write to the theme and show how your piece responds in the very first paragraph.
Quick tip: Before you invest time in writing, open THEMA’s Submissions and About pages and read the most recent themes and rules. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Section 2 · Rules, pay & logistical facts
Exactly what THEMA asks for — and how they pay
THEMA publishes multiple categories (short story, short-short, nonfiction/essay, poems, artwork/photography). Their submissions page lists clear payment rates and mailing instructions; as of the latest public guidelines, pay on acceptance often looks like small flat fees (for example: $25 for a short story or nonfiction piece, $10 for poems or short-short pieces under 1,000 words, and $25 for cover artwork). These numbers can change, so always confirm from the official page or the PDF guidelines before submitting. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
| Category | Typical listed pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Short story (longer) | $25 | Pay on acceptance; negotiable in rare cases |
| Nonfiction / Essay | $25 | Theme-related essays accepted |
| Short-short & flash (<1000w) | $10 | Good option for tight, theme-focused pieces |
| Poetry | $10 | Submit up to three poems per theme |
| Art / photography | $10 interior, $25 cover | See art submission instructions |
THEMA asks contributors in the US to mail submissions to their PO Box (THEMA, Box 8747, Metairie, LA 70011-8747). International writers are instructed to email submissions to thema@cox.net in many cases. The guidelines and PDF explain SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope) etiquette and how to label the submission with the issue’s premise. Always verify the current contact instructions on their official site. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Practical implication: THEMA uses traditional submission systems and emphasizes physical mail with SASE for US contributors on certain items (artwork, photos, prints). If you prefer email submissions, check their Submissions page for up-to-date guidance on international email submissions. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Section 3 · Pick a theme-friendly idea
How to shape your piece so the editor immediately says “Yes”
Thema editors look for pieces that respond to the issue premise in an interesting, original, and readable way. Here are simple heuristics to generate ideas and vet them quickly.
Make the response explicit in your first paragraph
A theme journal reads submissions through the lens of the premise. In your opening paragraph make the connection obvious (not heavy-handed) — the editor should not have to search for why your piece belongs in this issue.
Ask: Is this a better poem, flash, or short story?
Sometimes the same idea can be told as a tight flash or as a longer short story. Decide which form most naturally contains the theme and write to fit normal length expectations (poems: any; flash: typically 100–1000 words; short stories: up to a few thousand).
Give the editor a twist
Because everyone writing to a theme starts in the same place, what separates acceptances is a distinct angle — surprising setting, an unusual narrator, or a structural twist. Brainstorm at least three different ways the theme could be approached before you write.
Write a 200–500 word proof-of-concept
Before committing to a long story, draft a short scene or poem that answers the theme. If the scene holds, expand it. If not, toss it and try another angle — the theme constraint speeds iteration.
Exercise: write one-sentence pitch that begins “This piece responds to the theme by…” — if that sentence is clear, you have an angle worth developing.
Section 4 · Manuscript formatting & metadata
Exactly how to prepare files, headers, and art
THEMA is traditional: they care that manuscripts are easy to read and identify. Below are precise, copy-paste-ready formatting rules that match the guidelines on their site and the public PDF.
- Use a standard serif/sans font (11–12pt Times New Roman, Georgia, or Arial) and double-space the manuscript if mailing.
- Include your name, contact email, and a short header on the first page (title or abbreviated title, and page numbers).
- Number all pages and include a header with your last name or abbreviated title on the top left or right.
- For email submissions, paste the story into the body or attach as a
.docor.docxfile if asked — do not send PDFs unless explicitly requested for artwork or image attachments.
Artwork for covers should be in color (digital prints or photos acceptable). Interior art is typically black & white. The guidelines PDF explains acceptable sizes and how to send physical prints or xerox copies; include a SASE for returned work if you want the physical original back. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Header example (copy into your manuscript):
Jane Doe Title: "Fortune Left in the Drawer" Page 1 email: jane@example.com
If mailing, include a short cover letter (see templates below), an SASE if requested by the page, and a clear note of which theme/premise you are submitting to. The rules PDF and submissions page give exact postal wording. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Section 5 · Writing the cover letter & labeling
How to write a short, professional cover letter editors will read
Cover letters for literary journals should be brief, polite, and informative. For a themed journal like THEMA, a one-paragraph letter that states your title, the form, and a concise sentence tying the piece to the theme is perfect.
Short cover letter (mail or email)
Use this as a copy-paste starter:
Dear THEMA editors, Please consider my [short story/poem/essay] titled "[Title]" for the upcoming issue on the theme "[Premise]". This piece responds to the theme by [one-sentence hook explaining the angle]. My contact info: [Name, email, city, country] Previous publications (if any): [optional] Thank you for your time. Sincerely, [Your name]
How to label postal submissions
Include a simple cover sheet with: your name, title, the theme/premise you are targeting, category (poetry, short story, art), and an address for payment. If you want your original art returned, include a separate SASE for that item. See THEMA’s GUIDELINES PDF for specifics. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Remember: editors read hundreds of submissions. Clear, polite, and concise cover letters help your piece stand out quickly and professionally.
Section 6 · Step-by-step submission workflow
From idea to mailed envelope — a compact SOP
Follow this concrete workflow to prepare, review, and submit your work to THEMA. It is designed to minimize mistakes and make sure your entry is editor-ready.
Read the current theme & rules carefully
Open THEMA Submissions and the PDF GUIDELINES. Confirm whether the journal requires SASE, whether artwork must be mailed physically, and the pay details. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Finish the piece with an editor’s lens
Trim, proofread, and ensure the piece answers the theme. Tight openings, strong final lines, and clear scene or image choices help theme journals.
Prepare your materials
Make a cover letter, print a clean manuscript, include a filled cover sheet, and prepare SASE and postage if mailing. For digital submissions, prepare a clean file named with your last name and a short title, e.g., Doe_FortuneCookies.docx.
Mail or email per instructions
Mail to: THEMA, Box 8747, Metairie, LA 70011-8747 for postal submissions. For international or email-specific instructions, consult the Submissions page. Keep copies of everything — never send originals of irreplaceable work without clear return instructions. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
Track your submission
Keep a simple spreadsheet with: title, date sent, method (mail/email), tracking number (if any), and a note for follow-up. Typical wait times for small literary journals can range from 6–16 weeks; use the journal’s stated response times if given. If you haven’t heard after the journal’s stated response period, send a polite inquiry. (Do not pester — one follow-up is enough.)
If a submission requires a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE), include one for the editor to use when returning your materials or sending a reply. THEMA’s guidelines emphasize SASE and postal etiquette — read their PDF closely. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Section 7 · Acceptance, rights, and reprints
What happens after acceptance — rights, reprints, and small payments
When THEMA accepts your piece, expect a short contract or email that clarifies payment and rights. Public materials show that copyright usually reverts to the author after publication, but always read the acceptance email carefully for any exclusive-period clauses. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Flat fee on acceptance (amount listed on the site or agreed via email).
- Non-exclusive or limited exclusive rights for initial publication (read the acceptance).
- Authors usually keep full copyright after initial publication unless otherwise stated.
Many journals allow reposting on your own site or in a collection after an agreed-upon exclusive period. Ask the editor for permission and keep documentation. If you plan to collect work into a future book, clarify reprint permissions ahead of time.
Bonus: keep your acceptance emails and bylines in a folder. These prove clips for future pitches, client queries, or contests.
Section 8 · Templates, examples & checklist
Copy-paste templates to use now
Subject: Submission — "[Title]" — THEME: [Premise] Dear THEMA editors, Please consider my [story/poem/essay] "[Title]" (approx. [word count] words) for your upcoming issue on "[Premise]". This piece examines [one-sentence description of theme connection and angle]. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, [Full name] [City, Country] [Email address] [Optional: short publication credits]
- Read the current theme and confirm your piece aligns.
- Proofread for grammar and typos; check formatting and page numbers.
- Include a one-paragraph cover letter and a filled cover sheet if mailing.
- Include SASE postage if required and if you want materials returned.
- Save a clean digital copy and record the mailing date in your tracking sheet.
Use the templates above, but customize the one-line hook that ties your piece to the theme — that line often determines whether the editor keeps reading.
Section 9 · Monetize beyond the small fee
Turn a single THEMA clip into longer-term earnings
THEMA’s per-piece payments are typically modest, but a publication can unlock larger opportunities. Use the acceptance as a marketing asset.
When you have a published piece, mention it when pitching freelance clients, applying for residencies, or querying larger magazines. Editors and clients recognize published clips, even from smaller journals.
A short THEMA piece can be expanded into a longer story, serialized on your blog, or reworked into a craft essay you pitch elsewhere. Use the theme as a seed.
Pro tip: create a small “clips” page on your personal website listing your THEMA publications with links and a brief excerpt. This acts as proof for client pitches and contest entries.
Section 10 · Quick resources & links (open these first)
Essential links for THEMA submissions and research
- THEMA — Homepage (index). Start here to find current themes and issue overviews. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- THEMA — Submissions page. Postal instructions, pay table, and contact details. Read this before you submit. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- THEMA GUIDELINES (PDF). Download the official PDF for formatting, art instructions, and SASE guidance. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
- THEMA — Back issues. Browse past themes and published work to understand tone and expectations. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- CLMP listing — THEMA. Third-party overview and journal context. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
- Duotrope — THEMA listing. Useful for response-time averages and submission history. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
- WritersWeekly — pay notes for THEMA. Community-collected pay information and hints. :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}