The WMF Archives

The Last Page Humor Column Writer's Guidelines

The Last Page is a monthly column that aims at humor. Its length runs between 500 and 650 words. Because of the difficulty in judging humor by proposal, we require submission of a completed manuscript. The Web submission form's proposal text box will accommodate a manuscript and cover letter. Payment for the column is $1,000, and there is no kill fee.

The article should be amusing and the tone genial - a story rather than a list of jokes or situations. The story usually relates to the writer's own particular experience. For example, what happened after he shaved off his moustache; what it's like to be colorblind (or a hypochondriac); or how an innocent-seeming toy ant farm turned into an unintended lesson in life. A "Last Page" story has a beginning, middle and end, and something happens. The best way to learn what a successful last page piece is, and how it works, is to study several of them.

We buy first North American serial rights. In addition, the last page columns are included on the Magazine's Web site, and articles may be reproduced on electronic research databases, microfilm, microfiche and CD-ROM for libraries and educational institutions.

All unsolicited contributions are sent on speculation. We will respond to submissions sent using the Web submission form, within three weeks.

New contributions are welcome, and we appreciate your interest.