Anomaly is a new online journal of poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and art, created with the aim of publishing only the most promising up-and-coming authors. Tired of reading literary journals comprised mostly of filler, the creators of Anomaly decided to curate a carefully honed journal in which each word is thoughtfully selected. They want to promote new poets and writers who are crafting their voices with intention, through steady work and persistence. All voices are welcome—there are no boundaries of style and form—and variety is celebrated. But all voices should be purposeful, meaningful, and thought provoking. To get a feel for the kind of writing Anomaly is looking for, you can read their first issue, listen to their podcast, and explore their blog online.
Anomaly is produced in the United Kingdom. They accept submissions year-round, and right now they’re accepting submissions for their third issue. Their first issue contains work from thirteen authors. They have a small staff, so they do not respond to all submissions.
Poets may submit up to six poems of any length. Fiction writers may submit up to six pieces, 2,000 to 5,000 words. They also accept flash fiction, but prefer full-length stories. Nonfiction writers may submit up to three pieces, 2,000 to 5,000 words. They accept biographical nonfiction of all types, as well as commentary—social, political, literary, etc. Opinion pieces and social commentary may be written by anyone; however, commentary specific to a professional discipline (health, psychology, politics, literature, poetics, etc.) must be written by an author with professional qualifications.
Anomaly accepts submissions via email, but not online or by post. They accept simultaneous submissions, and ask that authors notify the editors if their work is accepted elsewhere. In this case, the editors at Anomaly will still consider the piece for publication, respecting the wishes of the author and the publication policy of the alternate journal in which the piece will be published. They do not accept work that has been published recently; however, they do accept previously published work as long as the last publication was at least one year ago. Authors whose submissions are accepted by Anomaly will have the opportunity to consult with an editor to hone their work for publication.
If you would like to learn more or submit to Anomaly, please visit their website at
