The Amphibian is a journal of poetry and fiction that features writing from authors who live in two cultures at once: “There is no limit on how you experience two cultures, it can be countries, gender, language, ancestors, neuro-divergence, any way that you experience your difference.” They welcome writing from all authors, but they especially seek submissions from authors who identify with historically marginalized groups, authors who are refugees or immigrants, and “the lost.” They aim to create a safe place where identity can be explored in a healing way.
Established in 2021, The Amphibian is published in print and as a paid digital journal twice a year: in the Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter. Each edition features writing from around thirty authors, and artwork from around eight artists. So far they’ve published eight issues.
You can view the artwork for free online, but the writing is only available in the print and paid digital editions. Authors published in The Amphibian receive a free digital copy, as well as a discount on the print journal.
Each issue of The Amphibian is themed, and past themes have included Metamorphosis, Folklore, and Healing. Right now they’re seeking submissions on the theme “Refuge”: “Where do you feel safe? What are you hoping for? … It is time to find a place of safety whether it is inside yourself or in your community.” “Refuge” will be their ninth edition, published in October.
Authors of fiction may submit stories up to 2,000 words. They also accept flash fiction. Poets may submit up to three poems of any length.
The Amphibian accepts submissions via email, not online or by post. They only accept submissions that follow the guidelines they’ve posted online, so please read the guidelines in full before submitting. They do not accept submissions written by AI.
If you would like to learn more or submit to The Amphibian, 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.