Literary Journal

WordSwell Journal

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About the magazine

WordSwell Journal is a literary magazine founded in 2015 with the aim of fostering a community of writers and readers who value the intersection of experimental poetics and narrative craft. From its inception, the journal has sought to provide a platform for voices that challenge conventional forms while maintaining a commitment to accessibility and emotional resonance. Its core mission is to publish work that is both intellectually rigorous and deeply human, often featuring hybrid texts, translations, and visual poetry alongside more traditional short fiction and essays. The journal operates with a small editorial team and a rotating cast of guest editors, ensuring a diversity of perspectives and a responsiveness to contemporary literary currents.

Editorial focus

WordSwell is a quarterly journal that seeks personal essays, stories, poems, videos, artwork, and photography that embody deep, heartfelt honesty. The WordSwell organization was founded by Beat Generation poet Clive Matson in 2008. The literary journal is the organization’s latest project.

PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionTranslation

Submitting your work

Reading periodJan 1 to Dec 31

Reading feeNo

PaymentNo payment

Response time3 to 6 months

Simultaneous submissionsYes

Unsolicited submissionsYes

Writers should familiarize themselves with recent issues to understand the journal's aesthetic range, which favors work that balances innovation with clarity. Submissions are open year-round via Submittable, with a nominal fee that supports contributor payments. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but please notify promptly if your work is placed elsewhere. The editors appreciate a brief cover letter that contextualizes your work, but avoid excessive bio details. Response times typically range from 4 to 8 weeks. For poetry, send up to 5 poems; for prose, up to 5,000 words. Translations are welcome if accompanied by the original text and proof of permission.

We seek work that cuts through the posturing, commercializing, and dehumanization to help us better navigate a world of increasing complexity, competition, and alienation, but also a world of unfolding possibilities, fulfilling experiences, and human connections.

Read official guidelines