Horror Fiction Wiki
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Darker Banner

Darker Banner

Darker is a dark speculative fiction ezine. They will accept horror, science fiction or fantasy, as long as the story is dark.

According to the site:

We don't apply a strict definition to what constitutes "dark speculative fiction." That said, we generally view both "dark" and "speculative" as important modifiers.

"Speculative" means that the story should in some way incorporate elements that either do not exist in the real world, or at least are not readily apparent there. Fantasy stories that take place in an imagined world satisfy this requirement. So do science fiction stories that include technology or other characteristics that do not yet exist in our world. Horror stories should include a supernatural element or some other characteristic that distinguishes the world of the story from that which we encounter on a daily basis. Thus, Silence of the Lambs, while an excellent story, is not "speculative" fiction. As long as your story has some fantastic, supernatural, or futuristic element to it, it meets this requirement.

We interpret the word "dark" broadly as well. It should describe an atmosphere or feel to a story. There need be no overt horrific element in order to have a dark story, though these elements are certainly acceptable. We do not consider grauitous violence or gore "dark" in and of themselves. These may certainly have their place if the story calls for them, but a story that relies on either of these for its sole horror element does not belong here.

Stories that use evocative, atmospheric language and style have a greater chance of being accepted. Of course, use of language, alone, is not sufficient.

Presently, we need more science fiction and fantasy submissions, in addition to the contemporary horror submissions we receive.

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