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Literary Journal

First Line

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Journals & literary magazines1 open opportunity listed

About the magazine

First Line is a literary organization dedicated to supporting emerging writers through its online journal and annual contest. Founded with the belief that a strong opening line can define a work, it seeks to publish fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction that demonstrates originality and craft. The journal provides a platform for new voices, while the contest offers financial recognition and publication to winners.

Editorial focus

The purpose of the First Line is to jump start the imagination—to help writers break through the block that is the blank page. Each issue contains short stories that stem from a common first line; it also provides a forum for discussing favorite first lines in literature. The First Line is an exercise in creativity for writers and a chance for readers to see how many different directions they can take when they start from the same place.

PoetryFiction

Submitting your work

Reading periodJan 1 to Dec 31
Reading feeNo
PaymentCash
Response timeLess than 3 months
Simultaneous submissionsNo
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Writers should submit polished work that immediately engages the reader, as the organization values compelling openings. Follow submission guidelines carefully, including word limits and formatting. For contests, adhere to deadlines and include required entry fees. Simultaneous submissions are generally accepted, but notify promptly if work is placed elsewhere.

We ask that you do not submit stories starting with our first lines to other journals (or post them online on public sites) until we’ve notified you as to our decision (usually two to three weeks after the deadline).

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

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First Line — Submissions

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Explore the publication through its past issues and volumes.

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