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Open Call for Literary Submissions
Fiction. Creative Nonfiction. Poetry.

Now accepting submissions at Porchlight.

Are you a Southern storyteller with something to say? Whether you write with the cadence of front-porch conversation, the tension of backroad secrets, or the lyricism of magnolia-sweet memory — Porchlight wants to hear from you.

We're now open for submissions in:
Short Fiction – Stories that capture the soul and complexity of Southern life
Creative Nonfiction – Essays rooted in truth, voice, and experience
Poetry – Verses that sing with Southern rhythm and real emotion

This is your chance to be featured in a publication dedicated to lifting up Southern voices. Whether you’ve published widely or you’re submitting for the first time, you’re welcome here.

We believe in stories that matter. In voices that echo past the page. And in building a community that reflects the richness and range of Southern life.

The porch light is on. Come share your story.

Submissions Guidelines

Porchlight publishes fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry throughout its annual reading periods. We welcome work that reflects the depth and diversity of Southern voices—emerging and established. Please note:

Fiction

• Length: Up to 7,500 words (one story or up to 3 flash pieces).
• Fee: $5 per submission
• Simultaneous submissions are welcome. Notify us promptly if your work is accepted elsewhere.

Creative Nonfiction

• Length: Up to 7,500 words.
• Fee: $5 per submission
• Submit one essay or lyric piece per reading period.
• We accept simultaneous submissions but require notice upon acceptance elsewhere.
• Submit only unpublished work.

Poetry

• Submit: 3–5 poems (no more than 10 pages total).
• Fee: $3 per submission
• Poetry should be submitted in a single document.
• Simultaneous submissions are allowed; please notify us if a poem is accepted elsewhere.

Formatting Guidelines

• Use Times New Roman, 12 pt. font; prose should be double-spaced.
• Remove all personal identifying information from your document and filename.
• Submit only one piece per genre per reading period.
• Response time: 12–16 weeks.
• We only accept submissions via Submittable (link provided when open).

What We’re Looking For

We seek work that:

• Embodies literary excellence with a clear Southern sensibility.
• Emphasizes authentic voice over cliché.
• Explores regional culture, landscape, and language in fresh ways.
• Surprises us with craft, insight, and emotional truth.