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Literary Journal

Humana Obscura

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About the magazine

Humana Obscura is an independent literary and arts journal founded in 2020 with a mission to explore the nuanced, often overlooked aspects of human experience. Rooted in the belief that art and literature can illuminate the obscure corners of existence, the journal publishes poetry, short fiction, creative nonfiction, and visual art that challenge conventional narratives and embrace complexity. Its founding ethos is one of thoughtful curation, prioritizing work that is both intellectually rigorous and emotionally resonant, without succumbing to passing trends. The journal has quickly established itself as a discerning platform for emerging and established voices alike, fostering a community of readers and creators who value depth over spectacle.

Editorial focus

Humana Obscura is looking for poetry that is accessible, prose that is poetic, and artwork of the natural world that will wow them. They seek work that is nuanced, raw, and imagistic with strong elements of the natural world or hints to the human-nature relationship. They tend to favor work that is unexpected, evocative, yet subtle, with a strong sense of place and strong imagery.

PoetryFictionCreative Nonfiction

Submitting your work

Reading periodDec 1 to Feb 1
Reading feeYes
PaymentNo payment
Response time3 to 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Before submitting, carefully review the journal's aesthetic and thematic preferences by reading past issues. Humana Obscura favors work that is polished, evocative, and avoids clichéd or overly sentimental treatments. Simultaneous submissions are generally accepted, but notify promptly if your work is placed elsewhere. Adhere strictly to genre guidelines and word limits; proofread meticulously. Cover letters should be brief and professional, focusing on relevant publication credits if any. Response times vary, so patience is advised. The editors appreciate concise, well-crafted pieces that align with the journal's contemplative spirit.

Please read our submission guidelines and past issues to see the kind of work we publish.

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

1 listed
OpenDeadline · 2026-12-01

Humana Obscura — Submissions

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