Shadowplay is an annual print journal of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction, published by the University of Arkansas, Monticello. They are looking for writing that “dances in liminal spaces,” and “illuminates the pieces of our world which otherwise go unseen.” You can get a sense of what they publish by reading samples from the print journal online.
Shadowplay was established in 2023, and since then they’ve published three yearly issues. The most recent issue contains writing by 36 contributors, with six pieces available to read for free online. The print edition is distributed in bookstores, libraries, academic institutions, and through online retailers.
Shadowplay is open to submissions from October 15 through March 15. Poets may submit up to five pages, with each poem beginning on a separate page. Authors of fiction and nonfiction may submit up to 2,500 words. Authors may send one submission per genre per reading period. Submitting authors can expect a response within six months.
Authors published in Shadowplay receive one contributor copy of the print journal, and Shadowplay nominates authors published in the journal for the Pushcart Prize.
Shadowplay accepts submissions via email, not online or by post. They accept simultaneous submissions but ask that authors withdraw writing published elsewhere. They do not accept previously published work.
Shadowplay only accepts submissions that follow the guidelines posted online. Please read these guidelines in full before submitting.
If you would like to learn more or submit to Shadowplay, 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.
