Theme: Agency vs. Determinism
As we brainstormed ideas for our submission theme, we’d already selected Choices for the paired Nimblewitlit theme. We wanted to elevate the concept for Epistemic Literary but do so in a new and interesting way from how we usually operate.
So let’s get philosophical!
Is there a predetermined order to the world? Fate? An ultimate plan written in the stars? Or are free will, individual action, and choice driving the course of our lives and our relationship with the universe?
It’s not always such a black and white topic when you bring in culture, religion, and the like. Is there room for both? Do we control anything?
We want you to put on your metaphysical thinking cap, channel your inner Parmenides (or Heraclitus), and let us know if we were always going to have this theme or if we are writing our history as we go.
The specifics:
Window: Submissions will be accepted August 1-31, 2026. Expected publication October 2026. Please submit a new form for each genre.
FORM WILL OPEN AUGUST 1: https://forms.gle/tycBEc2GhxuYwYfQ8
Genre:
Poetry, including prose poems: One poem, up to two pages – Read by Kristin
Flash, one piece not to exceed 1500 words – read by Melissa
MicroFiction, up to three pieces, each with a maximum of 200 words – read by Melissa
Creative Nonfiction (CNF): maximum two pieces up to 1000 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 when submissions open on August 1st. 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.” We will ask for a short third-person bio 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.
