by Victoria Bromley
In a bid to support other literary magazines, here we discuss our favourite zines and small presses to expand your collection of lit mags.
Whether you’re a reader or writer, literary magazines are brilliant ways to diversify your reading and to support small publishing initiatives, as well as getting to know that magazine’s taste before submitting your work.
There is such a breadth of literary talent published across many different forms, from short stories to poetry to even letters, which serve as refreshing breaks from longer fiction. Accompanied by beautiful covers to decorate coffee tables and bookshelves, here are the lit mags we advise you check out.
Mslexia
Let’s start with a magazine for women writers which has recently published its 100th issue! Whether you write poetry, fiction, plays or any other creative mediums, this quarterly magazine is packed with writing prompts, author interviews, writing advice, articles, writing competitions, as well as championing women writers.
Having been longlisted for their flash fiction competition, I was desperate to read the winning entries, along with what else the magazine had to offer. I had a lovely time flicking through the floppy pages with a cup of tea, my eyes opening to new ways of writing and developing my creative form.
What a precious source of writing advice from women, for women. As Swim Press strives to amplify the voices of women writers, Mslexia is a magazine we want to spotlight for its shared vision.
Jaden
For those who want a variety of content in their literary magazines, Jaden is a colourful, highly decorative celebration of all forms of writing and artwork. From personal essays to reflective activities, this magazine is an interactive, uplifting, peaceful collection of work.
Their covers are always stunning and have a meditative quality. It’s one of those magazines you can’t help but dipping in and out of.
Missive Mag
While literary magazines often stay within the paradigms of traditional forms of writing, Missive Mag is a unique publication of letters, their debut issue note to self and their recent publication letter to my lover.
Their mission to reignite our generation’s love for the cathartic, reflective nature of writing letters makes this an original concept that I love! It also allows writers to explore a new medium they may not have considered before. There are seven writing prompts to choose from within the overall theme which allows creative freedom within the structure of the prompts. If you haven’t ordered your own copy of Missive Mag, then I highly recommend you do.
What are your favorite zines and literary magazines? Share your recommendations with us!
swim press 