Literary Journal

Paterson Literary Review

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About the magazine

Founded in 1979 by Maria Mazziotti Gillan, the Paterson Literary Review (PLR) has long been a vital outlet for poetry and prose that honors the working-class, immigrant, and multicultural experience. Based in Paterson, New Jersey—a city with a rich literary history—the journal emerged from the Passaic County Community College’s poetry center and has consistently championed voices often marginalized by mainstream publishing. Its mission is to publish accessible, emotionally honest writing that speaks to the human condition, with a particular emphasis on Italian-American and other ethnic working-class perspectives. Over four decades, PLR has grown into a respected national journal while retaining its grassroots commitment to community and inclusivity.

Editorial focus

The Paterson Literary Review ( PLR ), edited by Maria Mazziotti Gillan since 1979, is huge in every sense of the word. It is a journal of poets and fiction writers both famous and new. Brimming with energy and vitality, PLR publishes real work for real people. PLR also sponsors the Allen Ginsberg Poetry Awards.

PoetryFictionCreative Nonfiction

Submitting your work

Reading periodJun 1 to Sep 30

Reading feeNo

PaymentContributor copies only

Response timeLess than 3 months

Simultaneous submissionsYes

Unsolicited submissionsYes

PLR welcomes submissions of poetry, short fiction, and creative nonfiction. Review the full guidelines on their website before submitting; they typically accept work via postal mail or online submission manager during reading periods. They value clear, evocative writing that reflects lived experience and cultural specificity. Simultaneous submissions are generally accepted with prompt notification of acceptance elsewhere. Include a brief bio and SASE for postal submissions. Response times can be several months, so patience is advised. The journal also sponsors the Allen Ginsberg Poetry Awards; consider entering that contest for additional exposure.

Visit our web page at https://www.patersonliteraryreview.com/s...

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

1 listed

ClosedDeadline · 2026-09-30