Theme: Integrity
One of the most important qualities we look for in others is Integrity. But what does that mean exactly? At its most literal level, integrity is the state of being whole and undivided. I like to think of it in terms of being solid in three main ways: Reliable, Honest, Responsible. Being integrous can also mean having a strong sense of moral principles—undivided in a much different way. So why do we care about these traits? As humans, like it or not, we all depend on others. People with integrity tend to gain our trust and faith. And when people let us down, especially those we trust the most, it can be difficult to live with the disappointment.
The specifics:
Window: Submissions will be accepted Oct 1 – Oct 31, 2025. Expected publication December 2025. Please submit a new form for each genre.
Genre:
Poetry, including prose poems: One poem, up to two pages – Read by Kristin. *Editors note: I have a strong preference for shorter, free-verse works but I’d love for you to knock my socks off with longer, metrical, or rhyming works.
Flash and MicroFiction: maximum three pieces up to a total of 1500 words – read by Melissa
Creative Nonfiction (CNF): maximum two pieces up to 1k words each – read by Genalea
Visual Art: maximum three pieces, submitted as separate image files (jpg or png) – joint editorial decision
(All final decisions are joint.)
Format: Please submit your work using our Google Form, which will go live on the website when submissions open on June 15. Attach your file as a Doc or docx (If this is a problem submit how you need to and give us a heads up in your email), saved as “genre-last name” such as “Poetry-Houlihan.” No cover letter required; we will ask for a short third-person bio with website upon acceptance.
Art submissions should be submitted as jpg or png following the same titling convention as written pieces.
Simultaneous submissions and previously published work are welcome; please note the original publication so we may give appropriate credit. Collaborations are welcome.
All submissions will receive a response prior to publication.
