Read at least three pieces at Brevity Magazine (http://brevitymag.com/). Then, write a 750-word, nonfiction essay for the magazine that fits with its style and audience. Try to focus on one incident, or character. The subject can be about anything but yourself. Most likely, it will require a bit of research.
Brevity looks for “clear, concise, vivid prose,” that often utilizes condensed and connotative language to enrich the depth of the piece in a short amount of time. In this way, it can incorporate rather poetic conventions at times. Put a lot of work into significant details and consider where the essay will take the reader. Make sure the essay contains a purpose, a point, and/or an agenda. In addition, look at how published writers in Brevity end their essays.
This essay can be written in first-person, but again, should not be about you. Think of it as literary journalism—a sort of journalism and exploratory essay hybrid. The essay should speak on a specific person or incident, but point toward a larger social/cultural/universal commentary in the subtext.
Keep the following guidelines in mind:
- Essay is 750 words or less.
- Essay is nonfiction.
- Essay shows evidence of research.
- Essay is not focused on the author.
- Essay appropriate in style for Brevity magazine’s audience.
- Essay contains evidence of poetic conventions in language.
- Essay contains a point/purpose/agenda and points toward greater social/cultural/universal commentary.
- Essay focuses on one specific purpose or incident.
- Essay is written in Times New Roman, 12-point font, with one-inch margins all around.