Literary Journal

Writers’ Block Journal

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About the magazine

Writers’ Block Journal is an independent literary magazine founded in 2017 by a collective of writers and editors seeking to create a space for work that resists easy categorization. From its inception, the journal has prioritized writing that engages with the complexities of contemporary life—whether through formal experimentation, narrative risk, or unflinching emotional honesty. Its mission is to publish poetry, fiction, and nonfiction that challenges both the writer and the reader, without sacrificing accessibility or craft. Operating on a rolling submissions model, Writers’ Block Journal has maintained a commitment to emerging and underrepresented voices while also featuring established writers. The journal is known for its carefully curated issues, which often juxtapose disparate styles and sensibilities, creating a conversation across genres and aesthetics. It remains a volunteer-run publication, with a strong emphasis on editorial mentorship and community building.

Editorial focus

The Writers’ Block accepts written works within the genres of creative fiction, creative nonfiction, poetry, and those writing pieces that don’t quite fit into any category. It also accepts art and photography submissions. While the Writers’ Block seeks to promote an open and inclusive environment (and accepts work of all topics and themes), we do expect all submitted works to be respectful, considerate, and free of hateful and/or discriminatory language.

PoetryFictionCreative Nonfiction

Submitting your work

Reading periodJan 1 to Dec 31

Reading feeNo

PaymentNo payment

Response time3 to 6 months

Simultaneous submissionsYes

Unsolicited submissionsYes

Before submitting, read at least one full issue to understand the journal’s aesthetic range—it favors work that feels necessary rather than merely competent. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but notify promptly if your work is placed elsewhere. Include a brief cover letter that speaks to your writing practice, not just your publication history. The editors appreciate concise, well-proofread submissions and are known to respond with thoughtful feedback when time permits. Expect response times of 4–8 weeks; query only after 12 weeks. There are no fees for general submissions, though tip-jar contributions are welcomed to support the journal’s operations.

Make the title interesting and include that title in the file name. Our readers look for peices that wow them on every level and a title is a part of that. Don’t be afraid to submit something “weird.” We love weird! If you’re hesitant to submit a piece with unusual formatting or a peculiar theme submit it anyway. If your piece stands out it's more likely to make it into the publication.

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

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