Defuncted is an online journal that reprints writing previously published in literary journals that are now defunct. They do not publish new writing, or writing that appears in journals that are still running. Defuncted is solely, “a collection of abandoned things.”
Defuncted was established in 2018, and since then they’ve re-published around 80 pieces of writing originally published in journals that are now closed. Each piece is accompanied by an audio recording of the writing, as well as an acknowledgment of the original publisher.
Defuncted holds three submission periods each year: December 15 through January 15, April 15 through May 15, and August 15 through September 15. Sometimes they close early, so it’s best to submit promptly when the submission window opens. They accept poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, and they publish on a rolling basis.
Authors may submit up to three pieces, totaling 3,000 words or fewer. Defuncted also accepts longer writing, but they ask that authors email the editors with the word count before submitting.
Authors may submit only once per reading period, and submitting authors can expect a response within two months.
Keep in mind that Defuncted only publishes writing that is no longer available online or in print. Again, they only publish reprints of writing originally published in journals that are now defunct, and are not available as online archives. They do not publish unpublished writing, writing that appears in journals that are still in print, or writing that has been archived and remains available online.
Defuncted accepts submissions via email, not online or by post. They only accept submissions that follow the guidelines they’ve posted online. Please read these guidelines in full before submitting.
If you would like to learn more or submit to Defuncted, please visit their website here.
Bio: Ella Peary is the pen name for an author, editor, creative writing mentor, and submission consultant. Over the past five years, she’s written hundreds of articles for Authors Publish, and she’s also served as a copywriter and copy editor for a wide range of organizations and individuals. She is the author of The Quick Start Guide to Flash Fiction. She occasionally teaches a course on flash fiction. You can contact her at ellapeary@gmail.com.
