With so many literary journals out there today, it is easy for some of them to get lost in the shuffle, overlooked by both readers and writers. While there are many solutions to this problem, one trend, which is becoming increasingly common, is for journals to have a regional focus. Magazines that cater to a specific region and/or state set themselves apart from the pack, making it easier to build their subscription base and increasing readership.
Another advantage of journals of this type is that writers can focus their submissions to journals where they know their work will have a higher chance of getting published. When authors send their work to magazines without a specific focus, it is something of a crap-shoot. In no particular order in regards to quality, here is the list.
1. After Hours: A Journal of Chicago Writing and Art
As their name suggests, this journal focuses on writing and photography from residents of Chicago as well as former residents of the city. Their goal is to highlight the rich tradition of literature and art that the city continues to have. As their editor, Albert DeGenova says, “After Hours intends to be the artist’s view from street level ... the close-enough-to-taste-it view ... the common voice that tells the truth firsthand.” Past issues have included work from writers and artists such as Stuart Dybek, Jared Smith, and Patricia McMillan.
2. High Desert Journal
High Desert Journal aims to promote and explore the culture of the Interior West through a diverse selection of art forms such as poetry, fiction, memoir, and photography. They accept work from anyone in the region as well as people outside the region as long as the work is about the Interior West in a meaningful way.
3. Downstate Story
Downstate Story concentrates on promoting the work of writers from Illinois but will also publish work from authors living in the Midwest. This journal has published award winning work and has been receiving favorable reviews since its inception. They focus solely on publishing stories with preference to those of realistic nature.
4. Instant City
Instant City is a project designed to spotlight the art and culture of San Francisco. Their goal is to create a dynamic community of thought, writing, and art which explores the changing landscape of one of California’s most compelling cities. They actively seek feedback from both writers and readers.
5. The Delmarva Review
The Delmarva Review seeks stories and poems from individuals living in the Chesapeake Bay and Delmarva regions although they will occasionally consider work from others if it is compelling enough. They also publish reviews and nonfiction. Currently they offer their journal in two forms: a print issue and one available on Kindle.
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