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Literary Journal

Painted Bride Quarterly

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About the magazine

Painted Bride Quarterly (PBQ) is a literary magazine founded in 1973 in Philadelphia, originally affiliated with the Painted Bride Art Center. From its inception, PBQ has been dedicated to publishing innovative poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction that challenges conventional boundaries. Over five decades, it has evolved into an independent, volunteer-run publication with a national and international reach, maintaining a commitment to diverse voices and experimental work. The magazine's ethos is rooted in a belief that literature should be a living, breathing art form, responsive to the complexities of contemporary life. Each issue is thoughtfully curated to balance established and emerging writers, reflecting a curatorial demeanor that is both inclusive and discerning.

Submitting your work

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PBQ accepts submissions of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction year-round via Submittable. There is no fee for general submissions, though a small fee is charged for expedited reading. Writers should familiarize themselves with recent issues to understand the magazine's aesthetic, which favors work that is linguistically adventurous, emotionally resonant, and structurally inventive. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but please notify promptly if your work is accepted elsewhere. Include a brief cover letter with your submission, and proofread carefully. Response times vary, but typically range from three to six months.

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