Press 53 is an independent literary press founded in 2005 by Kevin Morgan Watson in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Named in homage to the year 1953—a landmark year for American literature that saw the publication of works by James Baldwin, Ray Bradbury, and Flannery O'Connor—the press is dedicated to publishing exceptional poetry, short fiction, and creative nonfiction. Its ethos is rooted in a deep respect for the literary craft and a commitment to authors who might be overlooked by larger commercial houses. Over the years, Press 53 has built a reputation for curating collections that are both artistically daring and emotionally resonant, often championing the short form, including flash fiction and prose poetry. The press operates with a small-press intimacy, emphasizing careful editing and beautiful book design, while maintaining a national reach through online sales and distribution.
Publishing focus
Short fiction and poetry only. The editors operate like professional baseball scouts: they seek out writers they would like to work with by reading magazines, journals, etc. Please visit the website and look around.
PoetryFictionShort Story CollectionsPoetry Collections
Selected authors Alfred Corn, David Jauss, Pinckney Benedict, Cathy Smith Bowers, David Bottoms, Marjorie Hudson, Michael Kardos, Clifford Garstang, Taylor Brown, Curtis Smith, Ray Morrison, Terri Kirby Erickson, Joseph Mills, Joseph Bathanti
Calls & opportunities
10 listed
Manuscript submissions
Reading periodJan 1
Reading feeNo
Response time3 to 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsNo
Press 53 accepts submissions during specific reading periods, typically announced on its website and social media. Writers should submit only during these windows, as unsolicited manuscripts outside them are generally discarded. For flash nonfiction, the press looks for pieces that are concise, vivid, and complete—often under 1,000 words. Simultaneous submissions are usually accepted, but immediate notification upon acceptance elsewhere is required. Always include a brief cover letter with publication credits, if any, and a short bio. Familiarize yourself with Press 53's catalog to understand its aesthetic; they favor work that demonstrates a strong voice, precise language, and emotional depth. Response times can vary from several weeks to a few months, so patience is advised. Do not query about submission status unless the stated response time has passed.
Please visit our website and sample some of the works of our authors. We actively seek out authors who are building readership through publication in journals, magazines, and awards.