The Common is a literary magazine that publishes essays with a commitment to careful editorial attention. Each prose submission undergoes three reads by the reading staff before an editor makes a final decision, ensuring that every piece is considered thoroughly. This process, while extending response times, reflects the magazine's dedication to thoughtful curation. Accepted nonfiction is considered for both print and online publication, including the online columns Long Reads, which features longer-form essays, and Dispatches, which publishes shorter pieces. This structure allows for a range of essay lengths and styles, though submissions must not exceed 10,000 words. The magazine's editorial vision values work that resonates with its readership across these platforms. Submitters should note that the reading fee is $3, and submissions must be anonymized with no identifying information. Only one submission per reading period is permitted until a response is received. The Common's approach is rooted in a respect for the writer's time and the integrity of the editorial process.