Literary Journal

Blood Tree Literature

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About the magazine

Blood Tree Literature is an independent literary magazine founded in 2016 by a collective of writers and artists seeking to create a space for work that is both visceral and lyrical. The journal takes its name from the bloodwood tree, a symbol of resilience and deep-rooted connection, reflecting its commitment to writing that taps into primal, emotional, and often overlooked experiences. Since its inception, Blood Tree Literature has published biannually, featuring poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and visual art that challenge conventional narratives and embrace the strange, the beautiful, and the unsettling. The magazine operates with a DIY ethos, prioritizing artistic integrity over commercial appeal. Each issue is carefully curated to create a cohesive reading experience, often weaving together themes of nature, memory, identity, and transformation. Blood Tree Literature has gained a reputation for publishing emerging voices alongside established writers, fostering a community that values risk-taking and authenticity.

Editorial focus

Blood Tree Literature favors lyrical pieces despite genre that do not withhold depth or resonance. With that in mind, submit them your best, the box under your bed marked UNSHARABLE , the orphan poem, or black sheep fiction. Send them your experimentals: be vulnerable, be calculated. Current Submission Period: issue 17 contest, “The Climate Issue,” open April 2026 for July 2026 release. Details on website and Submittable.

PoetryFictionCreative Nonfiction

Submitting your work

Reading periodOct 1 to Oct 30

Reading feeYes

PaymentCash

Response timeLess than 3 months

Simultaneous submissionsYes

Unsolicited submissionsYes

Blood Tree Literature accepts submissions year-round through its website, with occasional themed calls. Writers should familiarize themselves with the journal's aesthetic by reading past issues, available online and in print. The editors seek work that is vivid, surprising, and emotionally honest—avoid overly polished or conventional pieces. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but notify immediately if your work is placed elsewhere. Include a brief cover letter with your submission, and ensure your contact information is accurate. Response times vary, but generally range from one to three months. Payment is in contributor copies and a small honorarium when funds allow. For visual art, submit high-resolution images with a descriptive list. Always follow the specific guidelines on the website, as they may change per reading period.

Abusive or derogatory submissions are not allowed—not now, not ever. BTL is a pro-choice, trans-inclusive, anti-AI, antiracist publication.

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

1 listed

ClosedDeadline · 2026-10-01