1. Is Paperclip Press a traditional publisher or self-publishing platform?
Neither. We are an independent publishing house. We curate, edit, design, publish, and distribute selected works — with the care of a boutique press and the reach of a global one. We don’t offer vanity or pay-to-publish services.
2. Do I need an agent to submit my work?
No agent needed. We’re here for the un-agented, the overlooked, the never-submitted, and the once-burned-by-traditional.
3. Do you pay authors?
We don’t pay upfront advances, but authors receive profit share, contributor copies, global distribution, and long-term visibility through our platform and partnerships.
4. Can I submit if I’ve already been published?
Absolutely. We love seasoned voices. Just bring us the story you couldn’t place anywhere else — the one too raw, too weird, or too true.
5. Can I submit if I’ve never been published?
Please do. If you’re 40+, have a sharp story, and can follow a deadline — we’re listening.
6. Will I retain rights to my work?
Yes, you keep your copyright. But for all anthologies, we ask for exclusive print and digital rights in perpetuity for the published version in Paperclip Atlas or Paperclip Kitchen. This allows us to continue selling and distributing the collection long-term.
7. Can I submit previously published work?
No. We only accept original, unpublished work. It must not appear in any public blog, newsletter, anthology, or print publication.
8. Can I submit multiple pieces?
Please stick to one story per anthology call. Quality over quantity. And if you change your mind mid-process, let us know.
9. Will I get feedback if my story isn’t selected?
Due to volume, we can’t guarantee personalized feedback. But confirmed participants will have access to prompts, guidance, and optional sprints — so you won’t leave empty-handed.
10. Why do you only accept authors age 40+?
Because wisdom deserves a mic. We’re spotlighting voices shaped by time, loss, growth, reinvention, and decades of observation. This is your stage.
