This is Jason here with an update on the future of Theme of Absence. This is not an easy post to write, but after nearly eight years, I will be taking a break from the site. I started this ezine as a writer with the goal of providing a place for other writers, especially new writers, to have a place to see their work published.
It was a passion project for me and a very enjoyable project. I’ve made some great contacts over the years and read a tremendous amount of short stories, whether they were accepted or not.
But now, it is time for me to put the site on hiatus. I’m still going through some personal issues, and have mostly moved on from writing and publishing and into the area of game design and YouTube content.
This is hard, but it’s something I’ve been wrestling with for a long time. I have lost some passion for the site, and as soon as reading the submissions and preparing posts became more of a chore than fun, I decided it is time to move on.
I will keep the site live indefinitely, but will be canceling the Patreon and refunding anything that came in for November.
I also may consider selling the site. If you have interest in this, feel free to contact me at jason@themeofabsence.com.
I want to thank every writer out there who has sent in short stories. I appreciate every writer and reader who has visited or contributed to the site over the years.
If you’d like to continue to follow me, you can check out my card game at https://52dragons.com and my gaming YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/tabletopjason
Thank you all so much and I wish you all the best with your writing.
Hey Jason,
Thanks for publishing some really great work over the years. We’ll miss you.
Best,
Roy
So sad to hear this Jason but happy you are taking time to focus on yourself and the things that bring you joy in life. I’ve enjoyed the stories and contests and really appreciate your support for my work over the years. Best of luck! -Ron
Congratulations to Theme of Absence for the wonderful contribution it’s made to the speculative literary world over the past eight years. The journal will be missed.