Shadowplay Literary Magazine Submission Guide: Everything Writers Need to Know
If you are searching for a welcoming literary space to submit your fiction, nonfiction, or poetry, Shadowplay Literary Magazine is currently open for submissions. This opportunity is ideal for emerging and experienced writers who want to publish previously unpublished work and build their literary credentials.
Below is a clear, simple, and detailed guide to help you prepare and submit your work successfully.
Submission Window
Shadowplay accepts submissions annually between October 15 and March 15. Writers are encouraged to submit early within the reading period to avoid last-minute deadlines and to allow sufficient time for editorial review. The editorial team aims to respond within six months, so patience is part of the process.
How to Submit Your Work
All submissions must be emailed to shadowplaylit@gmail.com. Attach your work as a .doc or .docx file. Do not paste the work into the email body, and do not use PDF files unless the formatting of the piece absolutely requires it.
Your email subject line should follow this format:
Genre: FirstName LastName
Example:
Fiction: Jane Doe
Poetry: Michael Smith
Using the correct subject line ensures that editors can properly categorize and review your submission.
Length and Formatting Guidelines
Shadowplay accepts fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Each category has specific length guidelines:
- Fiction and nonfiction submissions must be 2,500 words or fewer.
- Poetry submissions must be five typed pages or fewer.
- Each poem should begin on a new page within the same document.
- All submitted pieces should be placed in one single file.
There is no minimum word count requirement, but writers should ensure their submissions are polished, complete, and carefully formatted before sending.
Author Bio Requirements
Instead of submitting a cover letter, writers should include a third-person bio in the body of the submission email. The bio must be 100 words or fewer and may include relevant writing achievements, publications, or short personal details related to the writer’s literary work.
Submission Fees and Contributor Copies
Submitting to Shadowplay is completely free, making it accessible to writers at all stages of their careers. While the journal does not provide monetary payment, accepted contributors will receive one complimentary print copy of the issue in which their work appears. Additional copies can be purchased later if desired.
Multiple and Simultaneous Submissions
Writers may submit once per reading period for each genre. If submitting to multiple genres, send each submission in a separate email.
Simultaneous submissions are allowed. However, if your work is accepted elsewhere, you must notify Shadowplay immediately so your submission can be withdrawn from consideration.
Publication Rights
Shadowplay acquires first North American serial rights for accepted works. Selected pieces will appear in the print journal, and some may also be featured on the magazine’s website. After publication, writers typically retain the ability to republish their work elsewhere, depending on standard rights agreements.
Final Tips Before Submitting
Before sending your submission:
- Confirm that your file is properly attached
- Ensure your subject line follows the required format
- Check that your work meets the length requirements
- Include your third-person bio in the email body
- Proofread your work carefully for grammar and formatting
Shadowplay offers a straightforward, fee-free submission process and provides writers with a valuable opportunity to appear in a university-supported literary journal. If you have a polished poem, short story, or essay ready, this could be the perfect moment to submit and take another meaningful step in your writing journey.
You can learn more or verify updates directly on the official site here:
Shadowplay Magazine