african american short story contest

Yes, Delia is African American in the short story 'Sweat'.

Well, African American Gothic short stories can be really interesting. They typically blend the Gothic genre with the African American cultural experience. Many of these stories might deal with the idea of being an outsider within society, which is a common feeling in the African American community. The use of Gothic elements like dark, spooky mansions or mysterious forests serves to heighten the sense of unease and reflect the internal and external struggles faced by the characters.

Well, there's the theme of the search for freedom. African American short stories often show the characters' longing for freedom from various forms of bondage, whether it's physical slavery or social and economic limitations. The theme of cultural heritage is strong too. Writers use stories to pass on the unique African American culture, including music, language, and traditions. And of course, the theme of social justice, as they strive for equality and fair treatment in a society that has been unjust to them for so long.

In African American Gothic short stories, a frequently seen theme is the intergenerational transmission of trauma. The horrors of the past, such as slavery and segregation, are passed down through generations, and this is often depicted through Gothic devices. Another common theme is the fight for freedom, not just physical freedom but also mental and emotional freedom. The stories also tend to explore the relationship between the individual and the community, especially in the context of a society that has marginalized African Americans. This is often done in a way that combines the spooky and the psychological, creating a unique and poignant literary experience.

African American literature often focuses on important themes like racial identity, discrimination, and the search for freedom. It showcases the rich history and culture of African Americans. In contrast, erotic novels, which are not something we should overly focus on, tend to be more about sexual content rather than these profound social and cultural aspects.

To win, make your story unique and engaging. Focus on a strong plot and well-developed characters.

One classic is 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson. It shows the dark side of human nature in a small town. Another is 'Sonny's Blues' by James Baldwin. It delves into the relationship between two brothers and the power of music. Also, 'Everyday Use' by Alice Walker is great. It explores the different ways of understanding heritage within a family.

One common theme is the struggle for identity. African American women often have to navigate their racial, gender, and cultural identities. For example, in many stories, they face discrimination based on their race and gender simultaneously. Another theme is family. Family can be a source of both support and conflict, as seen in stories like 'Everyday Use' where the different views of family heritage create tension.

Well, for a YA short story contest, common requirements include a word count range, like 3,000 to 8,000 words. Also, the story might need to fit within a given genre or topic. And often, there are rules about originality and submission format.

I'm not sure exactly, but you might be able to find the date on the Austin Chronicle's official website or by contacting their editorial team.