The Kenyon Review: A Legacy of Literary Excellence and Emerging Voices Since 1939
- For The Writers | Official
- Mar 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 19
Since its founding in 1939, The Kenyon Review has been one of America’s most prestigious literary journals, publishing some of the most innovative and thought-provoking fiction, poetry, and literary criticism. Known for launching the careers of countless writers, the magazine has played a pivotal role in shaping the literary landscape in the United States.
A Rich History of Literary Innovation
Founded by John Crowe Ransom, a poet and critic associated with the Southern Agrarians, The Kenyon Review was established at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. Under Ransom’s leadership, the journal became a platform for the New Criticism movement, emphasizing close reading and text analysis.
The magazine gained national recognition throughout the 1940s and 1950s for publishing literary giants such as Robert Lowell, Flannery O’Connor, T.S. Eliot, and Sylvia Plath. It quickly became a highly influential publication known for its rigorous editorial standards and commitment to literary excellence.
After a brief hiatus in the 1970s, The Kenyon Review was revived and expanded its reach, embracing a more diverse range of voices and genres. Today, it remains one of the most respected literary journals in the country.
What The Kenyon Review Publishes
The Kenyon Review is celebrated for its broad literary scope, publishing:
Fiction – Featuring both emerging and established writers, the journal is known for publishing short stories that push literary boundaries.
Poetry – A mix of contemporary, experimental, and traditional forms that reflect the evolving landscape of modern poetry.
Creative Nonfiction and Essays – Thought-provoking literary essays that examine culture, history, and personal narratives.
Literary Criticism – Analytical essays that engage deeply with literary texts, often focusing on themes, form, and structure.
The journal is published quarterly, both in print and online, reaching a broad audience of writers, scholars, and literary enthusiasts.
Commitment to Emerging Writers
Beyond publishing established literary figures, The Kenyon Review is deeply committed to fostering emerging talent. One of its most influential programs is the Kenyon Review Writers Workshop, an annual summer program that provides intensive instruction in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction.
Additionally, the journal offers:
The Kenyon Review Fellowship – A two-year program that supports early-career writers, providing mentorship and teaching opportunities.
The Patricia Grodd Poetry Prize for Young Writers – A highly regarded prize for high school poets.
The Short Fiction Contest – Open to emerging writers who have not yet published a book, giving them the opportunity to gain national recognition.
Through these programs, The Kenyon Review continues cultivating new voices and ensuring literary excellence's future.
Diversity and Inclusion in Literature
In recent years, The Kenyon Review has made a deliberate effort to showcase diverse voices, recognizing the importance of literature that reflects a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. The journal actively seeks work from BIPOC writers, LGBTQ+ authors, and underrepresented voices, ensuring that literature remains an inclusive and evolving space.
A Lasting Literary Influence
With over 80 years of literary excellence, The Kenyon Review remains one of the most respected literary journals in the United States. It has shaped literary discourse, supported emerging writers, and provided a platform for groundbreaking work that challenges, inspires, and engages readers.
For writers and readers alike, The Kenyon Review stands as a testament to the enduring power of literature—a space where words continue to transform, provoke, and illuminate.
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