Literary Journal

Spoon River Poetry Review (SRPR)

Open now

Journals & literary magazines1 open opportunity listed

About the magazine

Spoon River Poetry Review (SRPR) is a literary journal founded in 1976 at Illinois State University, with its editorial offices later moving to the University of Illinois at Chicago. Taking its name from Edgar Lee Masters's Spoon River Anthology, the journal has long been committed to publishing contemporary poetry that is formally diverse, emotionally resonant, and intellectually curious. Its mission is to provide a platform for both emerging and established poets, with a particular emphasis on work that demonstrates a strong sense of craft and a distinctive voice. Over the decades, SRPR has maintained a reputation for editorial integrity and a willingness to engage with a wide range of poetic traditions, from narrative and lyric to experimental and hybrid forms.

Submitting your work

Reading periodOpen now

Poets should submit only previously unpublished work and adhere strictly to the journal's reading periods, which are typically announced on its website and social media. SRPR favors submissions of 3-5 poems, though individual poems are also considered. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but immediate notification is required if work is accepted elsewhere. The editors appreciate a brief cover letter that contextualizes the submission, but avoid lengthy biographical narratives. Given the journal's competitive acceptance rate, poets are advised to familiarize themselves with recent issues to understand the editorial aesthetic, which values clarity, originality, and emotional depth over trend-driven or overly conceptual work. Response times can vary from several weeks to a few months, so patience is encouraged.

Submission calls

1 listed

OpenDeadline · 2027-02-28