Welcome to the Contemporary Short Story Competition for CEA Beyond the Moment, a celebration of stories rooted in the here and now. This anthology invites writers to explore the depth of human experiences and the intricate moments that define our lives.
We’re looking for stories that reflect modern life, from poignant dramas and heartwarming relationships to thought-provoking social commentary. Whether your narrative unfolds in bustling urban centres, quiet rural towns, or anywhere in between, your story should capture the essence of the present and resonate with readers on a deeply personal level.
Submissions start in January and close on 31 July of each year, with selected stories earning their place in this compelling collection. This anthology is set to be published toward the end of each year.
Share your voice, your vision, and your story beyond the moment. We can’t wait to see where your creativity takes us in our Contemporary Short Story Competition!
CEA Short Story Competition Rules
Before submitting your entry for the Contemporary Short Story Competition, please ensure you are familiar with the full CEA competition rules, eligibility criteria, and submission guidelines. These can be found on our dedicated CEA Short Story Competition Rules page.
This page contains all the important information you need to know, including:
- Eligibility requirements
- Submission guidelines
- Submission process and fees
- Criteria for selection
- Prizes, rights, and royalties
We encourage all writers to review the rules carefully to ensure their submission for Contemporary Short Story Competition meets the requirements. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at [email protected].
Subgenres of Contemporary Fiction
Contemporary fiction captures the essence of modern life, exploring relatable themes, emotions, and relationships. Below are some examples of contemporary fiction subgenres you may explore for your submission. Please note, this is not an exhaustive list, and we welcome fresh, innovative takes within the genre.
Examples of Contemporary Fiction Subgenres
- Slice of Life: Stories focusing on everyday moments and the intricacies of human relationships.
- Coming of Age: Narratives about growth, self-discovery, and the transition from youth to adulthood.
- Family Drama: Tales exploring familial relationships, conflicts, and generational dynamics.
- Social Commentary: Stories addressing societal issues and challenges, offering reflection or critique.
- Romantic Drama: Modern love stories focusing on the emotional highs and lows of relationships.
- Workplace Fiction: Narratives set in professional environments, examining the interplay of ambition, rivalry, and camaraderie.
- Travel Fiction: Stories about personal journeys and discoveries made during travel.
- LGBTQ+ Fiction: Exploring themes of identity, relationships, and experiences within the LGBTQ+ community.
Contemporary fiction reflects the world we live in today. Whether your story highlights personal struggles, social issues, or moments of quiet beauty, aim to create a narrative that resonates deeply with readers.
What Writers Should Focus On
The Contemporary Short Story Competition invites writers to explore the nuances of modern life, crafting stories that reflect the emotions, struggles, and triumphs of the present. To make your submission stand out, here are some tips and insights to guide your writing:
1. Focus on Relatable Themes
- Address themes that resonate with today’s readers, such as identity, relationships, societal challenges, or personal growth.
- Use universal emotions like love, loss, hope, or resilience to connect with your audience.
2. Create Realistic Characters
- Develop well-rounded characters with relatable flaws, desires, and conflicts.
- Show their growth or transformation throughout the story in a way that feels authentic.
3. Highlight Everyday Moments
- Showcase the beauty and significance of ordinary experiences, turning small, relatable moments into compelling narratives.
- Explore how characters navigate their daily lives, relationships, and decisions.
4. Use a Modern Setting
- Situate your story in a contemporary environment, whether urban, suburban, or rural, that enhances the plot.
- Include realistic details and cultural references to immerse readers in the present.
5. Avoid Overly Dramatic Plots
- Focus on subtle, character-driven narratives rather than extreme or unrealistic scenarios.
- Let the characters and their relationships take center stage.
6. Explore Emotional Depth
- Use dialogue, actions, and internal monologues to reveal your characters’ feelings and motivations.
- Aim for authenticity and vulnerability to create a lasting emotional impact.
7. Leave a Lasting Impression
- End your story with a poignant or thought-provoking resolution that stays with readers.
- Whether your story concludes with hope, ambiguity, or closure, ensure it feels meaningful.
Focus on crafting a story that captures the essence of the human experience and the moments that shape us. Let your voice shine as you take readers Beyond the Moment in the Contemporary Short Story Competition.
Submission Form and Fees
To submit your entry for the Contemporary Short Story Competition, please complete the form linked below. This form is required for all submissions and helps us process entries efficiently.
Submission Fees
The following submission fees apply based on your location:
- South Africa: R75 per entry
- United States: $25 USD per entry
- Europe: €25 EUR per entry
- Australia: $30 AUD per entry
- United Kingdom: £20 GBP per entry
Please read the CEA Competitions page to understand the costs and rules.
Payment Process
After completing the submission form, we will contact you to arrange payment for our Contemporary Short Story Competition. Payment methods include but aren’t limited to:
- EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer)
- Tymebank payment by Pick n Pay (South Africa)
- PayPal
- Payoneer
Please note that the submission fee is non-refundable, as it covers the administrative costs of evaluating and processing entries for the anthology.
Contemporary Short Story Competition Submission Form
Enter the Contemporary Short Story Competition Today!
The Contemporary Short Story Competition invites you to share stories that capture the essence of modern life and human experiences. Bring relatable characters and thought-provoking narratives to life as part of CEA Beyond the Moment.
Looking to Publish Your Contemporary Fiction Novel?
Do you have a contemporary novel ready to share with the world? Celenic Earth Publications is here to help bring your story to life and connect it with readers everywhere. Visit our Contemporary Fiction Novel Submission Page to learn more and submit your manuscript today.