Literary Journal
Rawhead
Open nowAbout the magazine
Editorial focus
Rawhead is an online journal of poetry, short fiction, nonfiction, and visual art. Named for a folkloric monster once used to scare children, it reclaims that symbol as an act of defiance. Rawhead stands for the power of art and literature to confront tyranny and silence. It publishes work that resists control, exposes what hides beneath comfort, and reminds us that creation itself is an enduring form of resistance.
Submitting your work
Rawhead accepts submissions year-round via email, with no reading fees. They encourage writers and artists to send their most daring, unclassifiable work—pieces that feel necessary rather than merely competent. Simultaneous submissions are welcome, but please notify promptly if accepted elsewhere. Response times vary from two weeks to three months; a gentle query after 90 days is appropriate. The editors value concise cover letters that contextualize the work without over-explaining it.
Please read our submission guidelines and feel free to reach out if you have any questions. We’re excited to consider your work! We are committed to always offering free submissions to every writer and artist, we select at least one outstanding artist and one standout writer from each standard issue to receive a $100 award, and we aim to respond within two to four months.
Read official guidelinesSubmission calls
4 listedPast issues
Explore the publication through its past issues and volumes.
Issue covers aren’t available yet
Visit the publication’s website to explore its archive.
Visit publication website ↗