Write a piece of original flash fiction (up to 1000 words) inspired by this image:
The winner will receive publication in the March 2025 issue of our magazine and a complimentary print & digital copy.
With the release of every print issue of Blank Spaces you will find a new challenge posted inside the back cover—an image-based Write Prompt Flash Fiction Contest! We try to choose images that might inspire stories that could go in any number of directions. One of the most exciting things about this challenge is seeing the different ways people interpret the same image—we love diversity!
The judges?
Our editor-in-chief compiles a short-list which is sent to a panel of (at least) five volunteers, ranging in age from 15 - 65. Names and any other identifying markers will be removed from entries before submission to the judges. Judging is based on a number of different criteria (pacing, use of language, uniqueness, etc.) through which a points system will be applied. Judges act as individuals and make ratings based on their own opinions. Points will be tallied when they submit their results. Highest score wins.
[For a complete look at what judges are basing their scoring on, CLICK HERE]
The Rules
Write a piece of flash fiction (up to 1000 words) using the image above as inspiration. The winner will be published in the next issue of Blank Spaces. Honourable mentions will be showcased on the website.
Submit your entry using the form below.
Deadline to enter is January 10, 2025.
Open to all Canadians.
Submit your entry.
Use the provided form to copy and paste your entry into.
Entries to the write prompt contest must meet the same expectations as any other submission. Please familiarize yourself with our guidelines and expectations (FAQ) to ensure your story is not disqualified.
If your story is selected for the shortlist we will reach out to request a head shot and a proper document file for your entry. This document must be free of any identifying markers so that judges can truly be unbiased.
Any entry over 1000 words will be automatically disqualified.
The form does not allow for special formatting. If formatting (tabs and italics) are important to the structure of your story please include a little disclaimer. Stories that are passed on to the judging panel will be properly formatted first.
If you have a print-ready image you'd like to see used as a write prompt for one of our challenges, contact us and send it along — we'd love your input!
If you would like to volunteer as a judge during one of our sessions, drop us a line and let us know, and we'll call on you when we have a space available (obviously, those who enter the contest cannot be judges themselves).
Past Write Prompt Images
select the image to view the winners
