Difficult Times For SF Magazines 218
Lawrence Person writes "Another speculative fiction magazine folds: Realms of Fantasy is ceasing publication. This comes hot on the heels of the announcement that the venerable Fantasy and Science Fiction will be moving from a monthly to a bimonthly schedule, and underscores what a tough environment this is for science fiction and fantasy magazines, all of which have suffered declining circulation for quite some time. This is a real problem, since short fiction is generally where new writers cut their teeth, appearing in print alongside their more famous peers. Given that a one-year subscription costs less than the average video game, those with an interest in science fiction might want to consider buying subscriptions to Asimov's, Fantasy and Science Fiction, and Analog. (Those in the UK might want to add Interzone and/or Black Static and Postscripts as well.)"
Online uptake? (Score:5, Funny)
Re:Two words... fan fic (Score:5, Funny)
fanfic is the craigslist of the publishing world.
And just like craigslist, 2/3 of it deals with sex and some kind of disturbing fetish.
here's my idea (Score:1, Funny)
Every month, feature a different gorgeous model on the cover with a flower in her hair, as in:
If you're going to San Francisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair
Yeah it's gimmicky, but it's the kind of thing people remember, especially since they have little or no time to read nowadays. Even article summaries.
Re:Online uptake? (Score:1, Funny)
Deal with it. Embrace IDIC.
Deal with what? I don't care who reads what. I was merely proposing a possible explanation as to why a genre of fiction with no literary merit happens to be waning in magazine subscription. This isn't about me or my love for alcoholic writers. This is about academia's love of said writers. How's this for science fiction:
The year is 2309. The iPod has passed the Turning Test. College students are still reading and analyzing the great works of Hemingway. Asimov who?
</troll>
(For the record, I like Asimov too. Jeez.)
Re:Their subscription model is screwed up. (Score:5, Funny)
Yes, but if you buy it at a bookstore the checkout clerk will be able to judge you for your terrible taste.
Only a problem for those insecure enough to care.
Re:New Writers (Score:5, Funny)
crossover slash fanfic of Drizzt on Legolas while being flogged by Commander Rico under the supervision of Corwin, with many Lensmen watching the show
I find your ideas intriguing and would like to subscribe to your magazine.