The landscape of North American letters is enriched by specialized publications that champion the intersection of emerging talent and established mastery. Among these, FreeFall Magazine stands as a distinguished voice emerging from Calgary, Alberta. Operated by the FreeFall Literary Society of Calgary, this publication serves as more than just a journal; it is a curated platform dedicated to the amplification of Canadian voices across a diverse spectrum of literary and visual arts.
Established in its current organizational form in 2008, when Micheline Maylor and Lynn C. Fraser assumed leadership of the publication, the magazine transitioned into a non-profit venture. This shift ensured that the focus remained steadfastly on the quality of the work and the encouragement of writers, rather than commercial pressures. By fostering an environment that welcomes new and emerging writers alongside seasoned professionals, FreeFall creates a bridge between generations of creators, ensuring that the Canadian literary canon continues to evolve.
Organizational Mandate and Ethical Framework
The FreeFall Literary Society operates under a clear mandate: to provide a high-quality platform for Canadian writers to showcase their work and to encourage the growth of voices across the nation. This commitment to inclusivity and excellence is mirrored in the society's ethical stance. The organization explicitly opposes racism, sexism, oppression, and any form of dehumanization. By standing against actions that threaten the safety and respect of individuals, the society actively works to amplify diverse voices, ensuring that the literary world reflects a broad and equitable range of perspectives.
Central to its identity is a deep respect for the geography and history of its home. The magazine provides a formal land acknowledgment, recognizing that its operations take place on the traditional territories of the people of Treaty 7. This includes: - The Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksikas, Kainai, and Piikani) - The Tsuut’ina First Nation - The Îyâxe Nakoda Nations - The Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3
Publication Cycle and Content Categories
FreeFall maintains a deliberate and focused publication schedule, releasing two issues per year. This bi-annual approach allows for a rigorous selection process and ensures that each issue maintains a high standard of literary quality. One of these two annual issues is specifically dedicated to the results of the Annual Prose and Poetry Contest, highlighting the competitive edge of Canadian writing.
The magazine is eclectic in its content, refusing to be pigeonholed into a single genre. Instead, it integrates various forms of expression to create a holistic artistic experience. The primary categories of published work include:
- Poetry: Ranging from traditional forms to experimental styles.
- Fiction: Including short stories and novel excerpts.
- Non-fiction: Covering creative essays and general-audience topics.
- Literary Reviews: Critical examinations of contemporary works.
- Author Interviews: Deep dives into the craft and lives of writers.
- Visual Arts: Integrating photography and cover art to complement the written word.
Submission Protocols and Eligibility
For writers seeking to enter their work into FreeFall, understanding the specific eligibility and timing requirements is critical. The magazine operates on a strict seasonal submission window, with open submissions generally accepted from June 1st to September 30th.
A significant policy shift in recent years has restricted general submissions to residents of Canada. This strategic move emphasizes the magazine's role as a champion of domestic talent. However, an exception is made for the Annual Prose and Poetry Contest, which remains open to international applicants, providing a global stage for the best of Canadian and international literary achievement.
Submission Guidelines by Category
The requirements for submission vary significantly depending on the medium. Authors must adhere to these specifications to ensure their work is considered.
| Category | Requirements/Limits | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prose | Up to 4,000 words | Includes short stories, novel excerpts, creative non-fiction, plays, and postcard stories. |
| Poetry | 1-3 poems | Any style is accepted. |
| Visual Art | Black and white photos; 6" x 4" max; min 300 dpi | File names must follow the artistname_title scheme. |
| Reviews/Interviews | Proposal query only | Full guidelines are provided only after the proposal is approved. |
Compensation and Artist Support
FreeFall operates as a professional publication that recognizes the value of artistic labor. Compensation is provided upon the publication of the work. In addition to monetary payment, the magazine provides a physical copy of the issue to the contributing artist, allowing them to see their work in its final, curated context.
Payment Structure
The financial rewards for contributors are structured based on the length and type of the contribution:
- Prose Contributions: Authors are paid $10 per page published in the magazine, capped at a maximum of $100.
- Cover Art and Photography: Artists receive $100 for cover art or featured photos.
- Interviews and Book Reviews: A flat fee of $50 is provided for these pieces.
Beyond the monetary compensation for visual artists, FreeFall offers a unique promotional opportunity. Photographers and artists whose work appears on the cover are provided with a one-page biography inside the issue. This serves as a professional endorsement and a tool for the artist to promote their broader body of work to the magazine's readership.
The Short Story Dispenser and Alberta Ties
A unique extension of the FreeFall ecosystem is the Short Story Dispenser. This initiative serves as a secondary life for pieces that have already appeared in the magazine, provided they meet specific criteria. This program highlights the magazine's commitment to its local roots in Alberta.
To be eligible for the Short Story Dispenser, a piece must meet the following standards: - Original publication in FreeFall Magazine. - A minimum gap of three months after the initial publication. - A length of less than 1,200 words. - Content that is suitable for all ages. - The author must have demonstrable ties to the province of Alberta.
It is important to note that while the Short Story Dispenser increases the visibility of the work, authors do not receive additional compensation for this specific distribution.
Professional Standards for Contributors
To maintain the integrity of the publication, FreeFall enforces strict rules regarding the status of the work submitted. The magazine does not publish any work that has been previously released in any medium, including print, digital, or online platforms. This ensures that the readers are presented with fresh, original content.
However, the magazine recognizes the realities of the modern publishing world and allows for simultaneous submissions. This means writers may submit the same piece to multiple publications at once. The only requirement is that the author must notify FreeFall immediately if the piece is accepted by another magazine, at which point the submission to FreeFall is withdrawn.
Conclusion
FreeFall Magazine serves as a vital artery in the Canadian literary body, pumping fresh talent and seasoned expertise into the public consciousness. Through the leadership of the FreeFall Literary Society of Calgary, the publication has evolved into a non-profit bastion of artistic freedom and social responsibility. By prioritizing Canadian voices, adhering to strict quality standards, and providing fair compensation to its contributors, FreeFall ensures that the art of the written word—and the visual arts that accompany it—continues to thrive in a dedicated, professional environment.