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Literary Journal

Thekenyonreview

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About the magazine

The Kenyon Review, founded in 1939 by poet and critic John Crowe Ransom at Kenyon College, has long been a cornerstone of American literary publishing. Established as a quarterly journal, it quickly became a leading voice in the New Criticism movement, publishing early work by Robert Penn Warren, Randall Jarrell, and Flannery O'Connor. Today, the Review remains committed to discovering and championing new literary talent while fostering thoughtful critical discourse. Its mission is to publish the finest contemporary poetry, fiction, essays, and criticism, and to support writers at all stages of their careers through its pages and associated programs.

Submitting your work

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Writers should submit only previously unpublished work and adhere strictly to the guidelines on the website. The Kenyon Review receives a high volume of submissions, so patience is required; response times can be several months. It is advisable to read several recent issues to understand the journal's aesthetic, which balances literary excellence with accessibility. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but notify immediately if work is accepted elsewhere. The Review values work that demonstrates craft, originality, and a distinctive voice, and it encourages submissions from underrepresented communities.

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