SPILT MILK

Our little darlings have all left us. We shall, in time, shove a digital copy on issuu for the rest of you to enjoy. In the meantime, here's the bit from the beginning:

We’re rather fond of words, and if you’ve made it this far, we’re going to assume that you are too. Our particular preoccupation is with the shorter breed of beast; we reckon anything that boasts fictitious qualities and comes in a compact and easy-to-devour package is just begging for a nibble. Maybe we’re just more mangled victims of the youtube generation, but regardless of our shameful attention spans, we believe that much can be achieved in terms of interestingness by keeping things short (but not necessarily to the point). Rather than being dragged along for the long haul, we can instead be treated to sideways glimpses, snatched moments (and non moments), the calm before the storm or that special moment just after.

Be disturbing, baffling, destructive, avoid explanation and offer no excuse. The short form lends itself to experimentation, enticing the writer to deviate from their assumed path and embark on something odd and exciting. Tone can be subtle, surreal, understated or absurd; the form is flexible and is happy to be stretched and tested. With flash fiction, often such elements are distilled even further — every word undeniably deliberate; tiny pinpricks aimed with devastating precision. Cut the blubber. Why spell something out when a subtle nod can be so much more resonant? A narrative which dances around an event that remains coyly out of sight — when done well — is a delicious thing indeed.

But like so many wonderful things, it’s a rather tricky one to master. We haven’t nailed it but that doesn’t stop us getting our thrills from lapping up the offerings of those who know how and are willing to do something about it. After not much thought, we decided to bundle some good ‘uns up in a conveniently book-shaped love object for other word gobbling fiends to devour at leisure. You are probably clasping it in your trembling hands right now. Be not afraid. This is not a coffee table book (the cover alone should be a clue) — oh no; this is a book that begs to be shoved in your bag and read whenever and wherever you can steal a blissful moment of solitude. Sort of like masturbation, but without the sticky celebration.

After much scouring, begging, and meddling, we have gathered together a delightful selection of fiction kindly sent to us by unassuming writerly types, carefully chosen to inspire a generous dose of glee just for you, precious reader. And you are precious, oh yes; although we’re pretty sure there are lots of lovely people out there who relish a good slither of flash fiction or short story, we’re also aware that it’s not as fashionable as we think it should be. There are some damn fine publications out there, both digital and in print, and yet glorious as they are, such endeavours remain something of a niche. We want you to help unleash some gusto for sharing short stories, rather than bitching about the sorry state of contemporary fare. A cynical stance might make you sound clever and (supposedly) knowing, but we think it’s a lot more rewarding to be annoying and peppy, put things out there and not be ashamed to like something that’s not perfectly polished and poised.

Everything you’ll find within our humble pages lie words that we have enjoyed reading, often for different reasons. We hope that you’ll find something that begs a second read and lingers in your mind. Reclaim that long lost tingle and lap up some choice word joy. And for gawd’s sake, tell other nice people. Stories are for sharing, so don’t be stingy.