The Signature Reader invites you to submit your poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction for consideration! 

 

We are an East Harlem-based, print-only magazine that features current events, fiction, essay, photography, and more. We prioritize East Harlem voices and artists, but publish writers from all over the country. We are committed to highlighting writers who offer unique, critical perspectives on topics they are passionate about.

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Please note the following before submitting work:

 

Creative Nonfiction: Our creative nonfiction pieces are a blend between argumentative essays and investigative journalism. They should cite reputable content and sources to inform people on the topic of your choosing. We accept all topics but really enjoy pieces that are overtly critical of current events or the status quo. We favor revolutionary thinking that encourages others to think in new ways. (e.g. true anonymity online, predictions for the fascist endeavors against the country, queer or anarchist content, why hopping the turnstiles is okay, the ethics of suicide, etc.)  As long as you can properly defend the point you are making, do not be afraid to push the envelope! 

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• Creative Nonfiction: 1 piece between 1,200-1,500 words.

 

Poetry and Fiction: While we have no strict theme for poetry and fiction, we are partial to work that loosely captures some element of the season you expect to be published in: (e.g. if writing for the Summer season, warmth/heat, change/growth/stagnation, beauty, adventure, freedom, or their antitheses would be expected).

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• Poetry: Up to 5 poems, no longer than 1 page each.

• Fiction: Up to 2 pieces, between 1,500-2,000 words each. Submitting a cover art page with each fiction piece is a big bonus if you can do so. 

 

Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but please be sure to let us know as soon as possible if your piece is accepted for publication elsewhere. Submitting to The Signature Reader is free! 

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Email your work as a single PDF file to thesignaturereader@gmail.com with the subject line "[First Name, Last Name] Submission: [Genre]". Please include a brief author bio (up to 3 sentences) in the body of your email.

 

Submissions are open on a rolling basis. 

 

We look forward to reading your work!