Literary Magazines for Aspiring Writers: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you a budding writer looking to get your work published? Submitting to literary magazines can be a great way to gain exposure, build your portfolio, and receive valuable feedback. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. In this post, we'll explore some of the best literary magazines for writers of all genres and experience levels.

Why Choose Literary Magazines?

  • Exposure: Getting your work published in a literary magazine can help you reach a wider audience and establish yourself as a writer.
  • Feedback: Many literary magazines provide constructive feedback on submissions, which can help you improve your writing.
  • Portfolio Building: Publishing your work in a literary magazine can add valuable experience to your portfolio.
  • Networking: Literary magazines often host events and workshops where you can connect with other writers and industry professionals.

Top Literary Magazines to Submit To

Discover the top literary magazines to submit your work to. From established giants. This guide has something for every writer.

  1. LEKH Magazine: A leading literary magazine known for its diverse range of submissions and commitment to supporting emerging writers.
  2. The New Yorker: A prestigious magazine that publishes fiction, poetry, and essays from established and up-and-coming authors.
  3. Granta: A British literary magazine that features work from international writers, covering a wide range of genres.
  4. Ploughshares: A U.S.-based literary magazine that publishes fiction, poetry, and essays.
  5. Tin House: A literary journal that publishes fiction, poetry, and essays from both established and emerging writers.
  6. McSweeney's: A literary magazine and publishing house known for its quirky and experimental approach to literature.
  7. The Paris Review: A U.S.-based literary magazine that publishes fiction, poetry, and essays, with a focus on translation.

Tips for Submitting to Literary Magazines

  • Read the guidelines carefully: Each magazine has its own specific guidelines for submissions. Make sure you read them carefully and follow them to the letter.
  • Query before submitting: Many literary magazines require a query letter before you submit your full manuscript. This gives you a chance to introduce yourself and your work.
  • Be patient: The submission process can be time-consuming. Be patient and don't get discouraged if you don't hear back right away.
  • Seek feedback: Don't be afraid to seek feedback on your work from other writers or writing groups. This can help you improve your submissions.

Whether you're a seasoned writer or just starting out, submitting to literary magazines can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips and choosing the right magazines for your work, you can increase your chances of getting published and making a name for yourself in the literary world.

November, After The Storm

Last night, lightning turned my room into a photobooth.

Thunder rolled down rocks on me

and the floor trembled under my feet

It darkens early in November. In the afternoon's half-light

I half-thought I'd like to go out again about my business

as I did this morning, managing to dodge the worst of the rain.

Yet I stayed inside, listening to the wild wind.

And though the sun gilded the clouds in the watery sky

at the end of my street, I worked on,

attention divided between will-I and won't-I

until it felt too late to go.

Soon, they say, there will be snow.

The day has died, and I am still inside

playing switch-it-on-and-off-again with my lamp

as clouds gather and disperse behind my half-closed blinds.