Literary Journals (Print)

Literary journals serve as vital platforms for writers to showcase their craft, offering unique spaces where creativity meets critical acclaim. These publications, ranging from well-established magazines to dynamic online platforms, cater to a diverse spectrum of genres, including fiction, poetry, non-fiction, and more. They not only provide a voice for emerging and established authors but also shape literary trends and nurture the cultural landscape. Whether a writer is aiming to debut their work, reach a wider audience, or engage with a community of like-minded individuals, literary journals represent pivotal stepping stones in the literary world. By submitting to these journals, authors gain the opportunity to contribute to the rich tapestry of contemporary literature, gaining visibility and recognition among peers, critics, and readers alike.

Selecting the right literary journal for your work can greatly depend on the genre you’re writing in. Here’s a breakdown of some notable literary journals, categorized by genre, to help you identify potential places to submit your work:

Fiction

1. The New Yorker: Renowned for its outstanding fiction section, The New Yorker publishes a mix of contemporary and literary fiction, often from highly acclaimed authors.
2. Ploughshares: Based at Emerson College, this journal is known for its commitment to promoting exceptional literary fiction.
3. The Paris Review: Famous for its in-depth author interviews, The Paris Review also has a strong reputation for publishing significant works of fiction.

Poetry

1. Poetry Magazine: One of the most respected poetry journals, it’s been a platform for acclaimed poets since 1912.
2. The Kenyon Review: This journal has a long history of publishing profound and influential poetry.
3. American Poetry Review: Known for its wide reach and diversity, this publication showcases poetry from a broad array of voices and styles.

Non-Fiction/Essays

1. The Atlantic: While broader in scope, The Atlantic regularly features insightful and impactful essays and non-fiction pieces.
2. Harper’s Magazine: Offers a blend of fiction, non-fiction, and essays, but its non-fiction pieces are particularly well-regarded.
3. Granta: Although it publishes various genres, Granta has a strong inclination towards narrative non-fiction and essays that offer deep cultural insights.

Science Fiction & Fantasy

1. Clarkesworld: This magazine is a go-to for science fiction and fantasy, known for its compelling stories and digital presence.
2. Tor.com: Known for publishing speculative fiction, Tor.com is highly respected in the science fiction and fantasy community. @reactormagazine
3. Asimov’s Science Fiction: Offers a mix of science fiction and fantasy tales, often leaning towards traditional science fiction stories.

Horror

1. Nightmare Magazine: A premier publication for horror fiction, offering terrifying and thought-provoking stories.
2. The Dark: Focuses on dark and horror fiction, appealing to readers who enjoy chilling, atmospheric tales.
3. Black Static: Known for its blend of horror and dark fantasy, this magazine publishes gripping and eerie stories.

Mystery/Thriller

1. Ellery Queen’s Mystery Magazine: An authoritative source for mystery and crime fiction, featuring stories from both new and established authors.
2. Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine: Offers a variety of mystery genres, from noir to traditional mysteries.
3. The Strand Magazine: Features a mix of mystery, thriller, and crime stories, including both contemporary works and rare reprints.

When considering these journals, always review their submission guidelines and current needs, as these can evolve. Submitting to journals that align closely with your genre and style can increase your chances of acceptance and help you reach an appropriate and appreciative audience.

QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN CONSIDERING LITERARY JOURNALS

When considering submitting your work to literary journals, the questions you need to ask differ slightly from those for book publishers, as the context and objectives can be quite different. Here are some questions to consider when evaluating literary journals:

What is the journal’s reputation and impact factor?

• How is the journal perceived in the literary community? Does it have a strong readership and a respected reputation?

What genres and styles do they prefer?

• Does the journal have a specific focus or preference for certain genres or styles of writing? Does your work align with their editorial preferences?

Who is the audience of the journal?

• Who reads the journal? Understanding the audience can help you gauge if this journal is a good fit for your work and your goals for exposure.

What is their submission process?

• What are the guidelines for submission? Are there specific formats, word counts, or other criteria your work needs to meet?

Do they offer feedback?

• Will you receive any feedback on your submission, whether it’s accepted or rejected? Some journals provide brief comments, which can be valuable for your development as a writer.

What is the acceptance rate?

• Understanding how selective the journal is can help set your expectations regarding the chances of your work being accepted.

Is there a submission fee?

• Do they charge a fee for submissions, and if so, how does it compare to other journals? Consider whether the fee is reasonable and within your budget.

What rights does the journal require?

• What rights will you be granting the journal if they publish your work? Can you republish your work elsewhere in the future?

How do they promote their authors and works?

• Does the journal actively promote its authors and their works through social media, readings, or other platforms?

What is the publication’s turnaround time?

• How long typically does it take from submission to decision, and, if accepted, from acceptance to publication?

Is there compensation?

• Does the journal offer any form of compensation for your work, such as a payment or copies of the journal?

How does the journal contribute to your career goals?

• Will being published in this journal help you achieve your longer-term writing or career goals, such as gaining exposure, building your resume, or connecting with a community of writers?

By asking these questions, you can better assess which literary journals align with your writing goals, style, and career aspirations, ultimately helping you find the best fit for your work.

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