Literary Journal

Acorn: a Journal of Contemporary Haiku

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About the magazine

Acorn: A Journal of Contemporary Haiku is a distinguished independent publication dedicated to the art of haiku and related short-form poetry. Founded in 1998 by a collective of poets and editors, Acorn emerged from a desire to foster a vibrant, inclusive space for contemporary haiku that honors traditional Japanese aesthetics while embracing innovative approaches. The journal publishes two issues annually, featuring a curated selection of haiku, senryu, tanka, and haibun from both emerging and established voices. Its mission is to cultivate a global community of practitioners through thoughtful editing, constructive feedback, and a commitment to the evolving nature of the form.

Editorial focus

Acorn is a biannual journal dedicated to publishing the best of contemporary English-language haiku. In particular, it showcases the individual poem and the ability of haiku to reveal the extraordinary moments found in everyday life.

Poetry

Submitting your work

Reading periodJan 1 to Feb 28

Reading feeNo

PaymentNo payment

Response timeLess than 3 months

Simultaneous submissionsNo

Unsolicited submissionsYes

Before submitting, carefully review several back issues to understand the journal's aesthetic range and editorial preferences. Acorn seeks haiku that demonstrate a deep engagement with the form—attention to seasonality, juxtaposition, and concrete imagery—while avoiding clichés and overt sentimentality. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but notify the editors promptly if your work is accepted elsewhere. Include a brief cover letter with your name, contact information, and a short bio. Expect a response within 2-3 months; if you haven't heard back by then, a polite query is appropriate. Please adhere strictly to the submission windows listed on the website and use the online submission system.

Do not want epigrams, musings, overt emotion poured into seventeen syllables, science fiction, political commentary, strong puns or raunchy humor. A five-seven-five syllable count is not necessary or encouraged. Preferred length is one to five lines, seventeen or fewer syllables.

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

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OpenDeadline · 2027-01-01