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Literary Journal

Calliope

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About the magazine

Calliope is a literary journal with a long-standing commitment to publishing poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction that demonstrates formal acuity and emotional resonance. Founded in 1970 by a collective of writers and educators, it has maintained an independent, non-commercial ethos, prioritizing craft over trend. The journal's mission is to provide a discerning platform for both emerging and established voices, with a particular openness to work that engages with the natural world, memory, and the complexities of the human condition. Its editorial stance is rooted in a belief that literature should be accessible yet rigorous, inviting readers into sustained reflection rather than fleeting provocation.

Editorial focus

Calliope publishes poetry, nonfiction, and short fiction, including mystery, sci-fi, horror, romance, and most related subgenres. Mixed genre stories and experimental forms will be considered. Mainstream stories will be considered if they are somehow out of the ordinary. Humor and satire are always appreciated. Editorial focus is on originality, characterization, emotional content, and imagery. Sex, gore, and strong language, while not forbidden, must not be gratuitous. Challenge readers but don’t, in the process, forget to tell a good story.

PoetryFictionCreative Nonfiction

Submitting your work

Reading periodJan 1 to Dec 31
Reading feeNo
PaymentContributor copies only
Response timeLess than 3 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Calliope accepts submissions via Submittable during designated reading periods, typically from September to May. Before submitting, read several recent issues to understand the journal's aesthetic range—work that balances lyricism with narrative coherence tends to fare best. Simultaneous submissions are permitted with immediate notification upon acceptance elsewhere. Include a brief cover letter with your publication history, but avoid lengthy biographical narratives. Prose submissions should not exceed 5,000 words; poetry submissions may include up to five poems. Response times average three to six months, so patience is advised. Do not query about submission status before four months have passed.

Calliope is published quarterly by the Writers Special Interest Group of American Mensa. It’s a popular market for less-known writers to see their work in print and exchange ideas about the craft. Mensa membership isn’t required to submit works for publication. Poetry is welcome year-round. Nonfiction is welcome year-round. Fiction is accepted on an irregular basis. See our guidelines online for current status.

Read official guidelines

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Calliope — Submissions

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Explore the publication through its past issues and volumes.

Past Issue

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