Literary Journal

Pennsylvania Literary Journal

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Journals & literary magazines1 open opportunity listed

About the magazine

Founded in 2009, the Pennsylvania Literary Journal (PLJ) is a biannual publication dedicated to scholarly and creative work that engages with literature, culture, and the arts. Operating under the broader imprint of Anaphora Literary Press, PLJ has established itself as a forum for rigorous yet accessible criticism, publishing essays, book reviews, interviews, and original poetry and fiction. Its core mission is to foster a community of readers and writers who value thoughtful analysis and artistic expression, bridging academic and general audiences without sacrificing intellectual depth.

Editorial focus

Pennsylvania Literary Journal is a printed and digital journal that publishes scholarly essays on a range of topics, periods, genres and fields, as well as book reviews, short fiction stories, interviews, photographs, art, and poetry.

PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionTranslation

Submitting your work

Reading periodJan 1 to Dec 31

Reading feeNo

PaymentContributor copies only

Response timeLess than 3 months

Simultaneous submissionsYes

Unsolicited submissionsYes

PLJ welcomes submissions of critical essays (2,000–5,000 words), book reviews (800–1,200 words), and creative work (poetry, short fiction up to 3,000 words). Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but please notify promptly if your work is placed elsewhere. Use MLA style for citations and include a brief bio. Response times vary; expect 2–4 months. Reading periods are typically September–December and February–May; check the website for updates. There are no fees for submissions, but PLJ does not offer payment. Approach with a clear, jargon-free style that appeals to an educated general readership.

Content of all types is warmly invited.

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Submission calls

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