Type Of Publisher
Online
Genres Published
Essays, Fiction, Poetry, Reviews, Visual Art
Year Established
2019
Address
Franklin, TN
Name
Samuel J. Stephens
Title
Chief Editor
Email
Mission Statement / Editorial Focus
Illuminations of the Fantastic is an online magazine that encompasses works of Fantasy, Science Fiction, Horror, Adventure, Mystery, Poetry, History, Travelogue, Essay, and Review. The magazine is the endeavor of Nashville-based writers who wish to enrich local culture and bring attention to their passion for storytelling. Their diverse interests span from Homeric epic to contemporary science fiction; from Beowulf, Shakespeare, and Milton to Robin Hobb, Brandon Sanderson, and Ernest Cline; from Chretien de Troyes, Marie de France, and Thomas Malory to the Inklings, T.H. White, and Ursula K. LeGuin. The magazine was founded by co-editors Sam Stephens and Philip J. Palacios in order to present the stories they share a delight in reading, stories that illuminate the human experience through a lens of the fantastic.
Accepts Unsolicited Submissions
No
Average Unique Visitors Per Month
358
How Frequently Is Content Updated?
1-2 months
Do You Have Any Cover Letter Advice?
We don't require a cover letter as such. A good email is as good as any cover letter, and often shows the true writerly instincts of the author.
What Do You Look For In A Submission?
A classic feel. Writing that carries the reader into the world of the story. We publish mainly "fantastic" genres, science fiction, fantasy, horror (classic as opposed to gore), historical fiction, and poetry that looks to tradition.
What Advice Do You Have For First-time Submitters?
To be prepared to meet several levels of constructive criticism. We don't run a chop-shop, but this isn't a charity house for cast-offs either. We expect work to be put into the story after submission, for it to be the best it can be.
Do You Have A Favorite Unsolicited Submission Discovery Or Anecdote?
One of our best "finds" is someone who found us, months before we even launched. Dr. Crystal Hurd saw the logo for Illuminations of the Fantastic (IF Magazine) and reached out, offering to write a science fiction story, outside her comfort zone.
Who Is Your Ideal Reader?
Someone who is familiar with classic genre fiction, who can appreciate the fantastic elements. We envision readers who are: avid readers, are not afraid of an occasional "arch" writerly touch, and can be reached online.
