My lit mag submission might be too violent.

Chagen

I'm writing a fiction short story formy school's literary magazine, but I wondering if it might be too violent, given that it features a mutilated corpse. And implied cannibalism (it's a cosmic horror story). I really wish I could get it submitted, though....

Sammy

You're in high school, right? Kids these days, they read the gory classics in English, right? The Lord of the Flies and Anne Franks and Clockwork Oranges, and the Shakespeares and Poes and Joyces?

You should submit it! And if they object, raise a huge stink, as is your wont! You should also post your story in Writer's Block, because it kinda lacks edgy dark stuff at the moment.

Myrmidon

It is so hard to tell when you're being sarcastic sometimes.

Not directed at Chagen.

Chagen

Sammy, the violence isn't there just to be there. There isn't actually any violence technically in it, it's a cosmic horror story with a twist ending.

And this is supposed to be filled with submissions by students themselves. We're showing off my school's creative talent.

I myself am a member of the team making the magazine. My job is to look at submissions and see if they are acceptable and good enough to be put in the magazine.

 

Sammy

It's entirely student-run? And now I'm confused, because shouldn't you know by virtue of your editorial position what sort of content you can and can't bring to press?

Chagen

The lit mag class contains students reviewing the submissions, but the teacher is in charge, kinda like a CEO.

Gelzo

Isn't it a simple matter of asking the teacher, then?

Chagen

This would be an awkward question to ask. And I can't ask till monday anyway. It wont matter that much, because while this is a grade for me, I will still get credit even if it is rejected.

And some of my friends want to read it. I printed out a rough draft today.

I have it stored in Zoho docs. Would you like for me to post it so you can read and critique it?

Gelzo

How exactly is this awkward? You want to get it published, don't you?

Chagen

Well, I made it to get submitted, yes...

But saying, "Hey, Coach Paul, my story contains a mutilated corpse and blatantly implies that the main character unknowingly ate his sister. Do I have a chance of getting submitted?" would be....something else.

Gelzo

Just start out saying you're wondering whether it's too violent. He can either read it for himself or ask for details.

Chagen

I guess I shall. I'll have to wait till Monday, though.