Etymology is a small, Central Florida zine with aspirations of publishing local authors. We believe that reading, writing, and creating in community can change the world.
“Etymology” is the study of words and how their meaning has changed over time. We expand that definition to reflect on how words have created change in us, evolving us, and affecting change on our world (starting with our local communities).
We publish a print zine twice a year. Very few pieces are included in the print edition. Subscribers have access to a PDF version, and our website publishes a variety of pieces on the upcoming theme throughout the season.
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Upcoming Theme
May 2024, Issue 1: Genus
noun, plural gen·e·ra [jen-er-uh], ge·nus·es.
- Biology. the usual major subdivision of a family or subfamily in the classification of organisms, usually consisting of more than one species.
- Logic. a class or group of individuals, or of species of individuals.
- a kind; sort; class.
Submissions close May 1, 2024.
How to submit:
- Email submissions as an attachment to etymologypress@gmail.com
- Attachments should be in document format, not PDF.
- Subject your email “Submission for *word* / *Genre*” For example: “Submission for Genus / Poetry”
- Please include a short author bio in the body of the email. 50-150 words.
- Simultaneous submissions are welcome, but please contact ASAP if work is to be published elsewhere.
Narratives
- We look for narratives (true or fictional) that have a strong sense of voice and are rooted in concrete images. All genres welcome. Graphic Narrative and other experimental forms are encouraged.
- Stories should be between 500-5,000 words.
- Stories should be double spaced, 12pt, Times New Roman font.
Reviews & Misc.
- We want reviews on all things Polk County. Books by local authors. Restaurants. Coffee shops. Laws. Slugs. Orange trees. Review anything.
- Although we want your review to be truthful, we will not publish reviews that seek to bash or harm a local entity. Look for the good. Even in slugs.
- Reviews should be less than 1,000 words.
If you have a brilliant idea for something else to submit, please do! Recipes, advice, comics, satire, and opinion pieces are just some ideas. This zine represents all of us. We want to hear your voice.
Poetry
- We look for poetry that has a strong sense of voice and is rooted in local imagery. Experimental form is encouraged.
- Poetry submissions should include 3-5 poems.
Photography / Visual Art
- We look for visuals that are interesting, compelling, and intentional. Pictures of ducks are cool, too. #ducksarethepinacleofgodscreation
- Visual art should be submitted as a .jpeg or .png
- Since the zine will be published online and in print, multimedia art is encouraged. If you would like to submit a video, please email us a link to a drive file. If we accept your submission, we will coordinate with you to get a higher resolution file.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I write my bio?
Write your bio in 3rd person using 50-150 words. Tell us what you write, where else we can find your work, and a little about you. We don’t necessarily need to know that you love coffee (we assume you do), but we are interested in little details that help us get to know you. Don’t stress over this! If you need inspiration, look at the bios of your favorite authors.
What if I’ve never been published before?
We are so excited that you are submitting to us! If you haven’t yet been published you still have a good chance of being accepted. As for your bio, just skip over previous publications and spend a little more time letting us know who you are.
How quickly will I hear back?
We have a very small volunteer team managing the submissions, and therefore will not be able to guarantee a speedy turnaround, especially if we like your piece. You will know at least a month before the next issue comes out, but we strive to give a response more quickly when possible.
Do I have to be local?
We strive to have an authentic, local zine that represents the community we actually have here in Central Florida. That being said, no one is out here tracking down your address and making sure you’re within certain boundary lines.
Do I have to write on the theme?
We encourage you to consider the theme, as when it comes time to narrow down submissions, we will use theme as a deciding factor in which pieces we accept. However, you can interpret the theme widely, and we do not expect you to use the theme word in your piece, only to use it as a springboard for creativity.
Do you pay?
Unfortunately, we don’t make any money at this time, so we can’t offer any payment. We would love to be able to pay our artists in the future! Keep your eye out as our zine grows. Our goal is to offer payment after our first year.
Still have questions? Write to us!
Etymology Press 