We're fiction people. We know that. You know that. We're American Short Fiction, after all. Today, though, we're launching a new essay series we're calling "Things American," which will feature authors tackling all manner of topical and literary issues in an attempt to heed Kurt Vonnegut's warning that "Literature should not disappear up its own asshole, so to speak." In truth, we’re interested in the broader experience of what it is to be an "American"—that funny, fuzzy-edged word. Inspired … [Read more...] about Introducing “Things American”
More than a Name on the Masthead
There are many ways to end the sentence, "American Short Fiction is _________." ASF is its traditional blurb. ASF is stories that take a different way home. ASF is supported by readers and subscribers, and has been since 1991. But we also want to draw attention to the fact that ASF is ... because of the generous and sharp folks who volunteer their time behind the scenes, reading submissions with attentive care. We depend on them; our magazine is better because of them, and we want you to know … [Read more...] about More than a Name on the Masthead
Web Exclusive Author Interview with Randi Ewing
With summer’s heat now fully upon us, it’s fitting that our July web-exclusive story, by Randi Ewing, is titled “The Swimmers.” But this is not your typical summertime tale of sunbathing and beaches. No, “The Swimmers” tackles something more magical even than that. Rendered in language that’s both intimate and vivid, “The Swimmers” is a story about our relationship with the landscapes around us, the secrets they hold within, and the larger-than-life wonders of the natural world. More than … [Read more...] about Web Exclusive Author Interview with Randi Ewing
Web Exclusive Author Interview: Casey Hannan
If our June web exclusive were a cocktail, the recipe for it might look something like this: Start with one good sentence. Add bourbon, water, ghosts. Measure carefully, with control. Pour over ice and enjoy, savoring each word. This month’s feature, "Ghost Water" by Casey Hannan, is definitely a story to be savored. Sharp yet sweet, rich with complexity and heart, and brimming with precise, graceful language—it’s one you won’t want to miss. We asked Casey a few questions about “Ghost Water,” … [Read more...] about Web Exclusive Author Interview: Casey Hannan
Web Exclusive Author Interview: Sal Pane
Just in time for NBA playoff season, our May web-exclusive story, “John Starks” by Salvatore Pane, is here. And what a story it is. “John Starks” is a basketball story. It’s a tale of competition, regret, forgiveness. Folks, this is a story about NBA Jam and dunking in the face of life’s adversities. In other words, this is one you don’t want to miss. Read “John Starks” here, and check out our interview with the author below. Bonus feature: Not familiar with John Starks and the 1993 Knicks v. … [Read more...] about Web Exclusive Author Interview: Sal Pane
Local Folk: Reading with Barbara Galletly
Barbara Galletly is new to the Austin literary scene. Coming to us from Los Angeles and New York, where she worked for a nonprofit bookstore and a literary agency respectively, Barbara is now pursuing her master’s degree at the University of Texas. When she stumbled into Domy Books on East Cesar Chavez, she was impressed by the communal vibe and the unique selection of books, zines, and art. So she decided to get involved. “I love book clubs and bookstores, but I’d never done a book club at a … [Read more...] about Local Folk: Reading with Barbara Galletly