Literary Journal
Grande Dame Literary & Art Journal
Open nowAbout the magazine
Editorial focus
Grande Dame Literary & Art Journal (Moth & Thistle) is dedicated to supporting women writers and artists. Writers range from emerging voices to self-published novelists to award-winning, traditionally published authors. Contributors span generations, from teens to writers in their nineties. GDL seeks to publish stories with strong characters that have a solid arc, memoirs that read like stories, inspiring essays, flash fiction and flash nonfiction that is punchy and to the point, and poetry that is moving and poignant.
Submitting your work
Writers should approach Grande Dame Literary with polished, carefully revised work that demonstrates a command of language and a clear understanding of form. The organization values authenticity and emotional resonance over experimental gimmicks or sensationalism. Before submitting, review past issues or publications to understand the aesthetic range. Simultaneous submissions are generally discouraged unless explicitly permitted; always follow the stated guidelines regarding length, genre, and formatting. A brief, professional cover letter that contextualizes the work is appreciated. Response times may be longer than average, reflecting a thorough review process.
GDL was founded on the basis of how can a author be successfully published on the site. Authors may make changes and resubmit an updated story. The goal is to help the writer be sucessful, not to keep the acceptance rate down. The criteria is based on how well the writer tells a story and if the elements of a good story are present. Stylistically, not all writers have had equal access to workshops and writing classes, and we seek to give writers a chance.
Read official guidelinesSubmission calls
2 listedPrize history
Past winners and selected work.
2024Noelle Sterne
2024Lisa Bernard
2024Carole Ornstein
Past issues
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