Ninth Letter: A Bold and Innovative Force in Literary Publishing

Since its founding in 2004, Ninth Letter has emerged as one of the most visually striking and intellectually daring literary journals in the United States. Known for its unique fusion of literature and design, the journal has carved out a distinct space in contemporary publishing, celebrating experimental storytelling, bold aesthetics, and diverse voices. Published by the Creative Writing Program and the School of Art + Design at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Ninth Letter pushes the boundaries of what a literary magazine can be.

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A Vision That Combines Art and Literature

What sets Ninth Letter apart from other literary journals is its seamless integration of literature and visual art. While many literary magazines focus solely on text, Ninth Letter is known for its stunning graphic design, innovative layouts, and multimedia storytelling. The result is a highly stylized, visually immersive reading experience that elevates both form and content.

The journal’s print edition is celebrated for its bold typography, intricate illustrations, and unconventional formatting, while its digital counterpart expands the possibilities of literary expression with interactive content, video essays, and experimental storytelling techniques.

This commitment to blurring the line between literature and visual art has made Ninth Letter a standout publication, attracting writers and artists who are eager to explore new creative frontiers.

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What Ninth Letter Publishes

Ninth Letter is renowned for its eclectic mix of literary forms, publishing:

• Fiction – Short stories that experiment with structure, genre, and narrative perspective.
  

• Poetry – Visually and thematically dynamic work that challenges traditional poetic conventions.
  

• Creative Nonfiction – Essays that blend memoir, journalism, and lyrical exploration.
  

• Hybrid Forms & Multimedia Work – Stories that incorporate visual, digital, and performative elements.

Because of its experimental ethos, the journal is a home for boundary-pushing, genre-defying literature that might not find a place in more traditional literary outlets.

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Commitment to Emerging Writers

While Ninth Letter regularly features established literary voices, it is equally committed to amplifying emerging writers and artists. The journal provides a platform for writers who are challenging conventions and redefining literary norms.

Additionally, the magazine is produced by graduate students in the MFA program at the University of Illinois, offering a unique collaborative space where writers, editors, and designers work together to create each issue. This dynamic model fosters an environment of innovation, mentorship, and creative risk-taking.

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Awards and Recognition

Ninth Letter has been widely recognized for its editorial excellence and artistic innovation, with work appearing in prestigious anthologies, including:

• The Best American Short Stories

• The Best American Essays

• The Pushcart Prize Anthology

The journal has also received national awards for design and typography, further cementing its reputation as a literary magazine that is as visually compelling as it is intellectually engaging.

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A Home for Experimental and Diverse Voices

As conversations about representation and inclusion continue to shape the literary world, Ninth Letter remains dedicated to publishing voices that challenge, disrupt, and expand literary traditions. The journal actively seeks work from BIPOC writers, LGBTQ+ authors, and writers from underrepresented backgrounds, ensuring that its pages reflect the full spectrum of contemporary storytelling.

By embracing experimental forms, emerging writers, and interdisciplinary collaborations, Ninth Letter is not just a literary journal—it’s an evolving artistic space where literature meets design, and creativity knows no bounds.

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Why Ninth Letter Matters

In an era where literary publishing is constantly evolving, Ninth Letter stands at the forefront of innovation, proving that literature can be more than just words on a page—it can be a multisensory experience, a visual statement, and a daring exploration of what storytelling can achieve. For readers, writers, and artists, Ninth Letter is an essential literary destination, offering a space where literature and design collide, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and redefining the future of contemporary storytelling.