THE PARIS REVIEW

The Paris Review: A Literary Icon Shaping Global Literature Since 1953

Since its founding in 1953, The Paris Review has stood at the forefront of the literary world, shaping modern literature and launching countless literary careers. With a mission to celebrate the craft of writing and provide a platform for groundbreaking voices, the magazine has earned an enduring legacy that continues to influence writers, readers, and scholars around the globe.

From its inception, The Paris Review has set itself apart by prioritizing the writer’s voice over literary criticism. It emerged during a transformative time in post-war literary history, offering a refreshing alternative to the more analytical, academic journals of the era. Its founders believed that stories, poems, and interviews should speak directly to readers without the filter of dense literary critique.

The magazine’s unique blend of artistic vision and editorial excellence has made it a beacon for creative minds. Over the decades, The Paris Review has become synonymous with literary innovation, earning a reputation as a creative haven where emerging writers and literary giants coexist. With each issue, it reaffirms its role as a cultural institution that not only preserves but also propels the art of storytelling into new, unexplored territories.

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ORIGINS AND FOUNDING VISION

The Paris Review was born from a shared dream of literary innovation. Founded by George Plimpton, Harold L. Humes, Peter Matthiessen, and other visionaries, the magazine sought to shift the focus from criticism to the creative process itself. They believed literature should be experienced directly through the works of writers and conversations about craft—not dissected solely through academic analysis.

Rooted in the artistic ferment of post-war Paris, the founders found themselves at the epicenter of a thriving creative community. They mingled with literary icons such as James Baldwin, Samuel Beckett, and William Styron, absorbing and contributing to the era's artistic energy. The magazine's establishment in Paris symbolized a fusion of American boldness with European intellectual tradition, creating a transatlantic sensibility that would define its voice.

This global perspective helped establish The Paris Review as a truly international platform, blending diverse literary styles and perspectives. It became a creative bridge where the old and new worlds of literature converged, fostering an environment where innovative voices could flourish, unrestricted by national or stylistic boundaries.

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THE ART OF THE INTERVIEW

One of The Paris Review's most groundbreaking contributions to the literary world is its celebrated Writers at Work interview series. These long-form conversations delve deeply into the creative process, offering unparalleled insights into how literary masterpieces are conceived and crafted.

Legends such as Ernest Hemingway, Joan Didion, Gabriel García Márquez, and James Baldwin have candidly discussed their creative struggles, inspirations, and working habits. These interviews are considered essential reading for anyone studying or aspiring to a literary career.

What sets these interviews apart is their depth and candor. Rather than focusing solely on finished works, the conversations explore the complexities of writing, from overcoming writer’s block to managing self-doubt. Authors share personal anecdotes, creative philosophies, and the gritty realities of a writer’s life, making these dialogues a unique blend of memoir, masterclass, and literary history.

The Writers at Work series has become a definitive archive of literary wisdom, offering timeless guidance for writers of all levels. It remains one of The Paris Review’s most enduring legacies, serving as a testament to the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring value of understanding the minds behind the masterpieces.

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LAUNCHING LITERARY CAREERS

The Paris Review has long been a launching pad for new talent. Its pages have introduced readers to emerging writers who later became literary titans. Jack Kerouac’s early works appeared in the magazine before he reshaped American literature with On the Road. Philip Roth published Goodbye, Columbus soon after his stories gained traction in The Paris Review, setting the stage for a career marked by literary acclaim and multiple awards.

Adrienne Rich, who would become one of the most influential poets and essayists of the 20th century, found early support in The Paris Review, where her poetry first reached a broader audience. Similarly, contemporary literary stars like Ottessa Moshfegh (Eileen) and Emma Cline (The Girls) debuted pieces in the magazine before landing major publishing deals and achieving international fame.

The magazine’s commitment to discovering new voices continues today. Recent issues feature debut fiction, poetry, and essays from emerging writers such as Brandon Taylor, whose novel Real Life earned Booker Prize recognition, and Raven Leilani, whose explosive debut Luster won critical acclaim. Through mentorship, exposure, and editorial support, The Paris Review remains a vital platform where the next generation of literary greats begins its journey.

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A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

While many literary magazines have come and gone, The Paris Review has endured by evolving with the times while staying true to its original mission. Its digital presence, including an extensive online archive of past issues and an active social media presence, has expanded its reach to a new generation of readers.

The publication also honors literary excellence through its prestigious annual prizes, such as the Plimpton Prize for Fiction, awarded to an outstanding work of fiction published in the magazine, and the Terry Southern Prize for Humor, celebrating exceptional works of satire and unconventional writing. In addition, The Paris Review supports emerging and established writers with various awards, contests, and opportunities, including:

• The Plimpton Prize for Fiction: Awarded annually to an outstanding work of fiction published in the magazine by an emerging writer. The winner receives $10,000, honoring George Plimpton's legacy of discovering new talent.
  

• The Terry Southern Prize for Humor: Recognizing the year’s best work of humor, satire, or unconventional writing published in the magazine. The prize includes a $5,000 cash award and celebrates the creative spirit of writer Terry Southern.
  

• The Paris Review Prize for Poetry: Honoring exceptional poetry featured in the magazine, this award includes a $3,000 prize for the poet whose work demonstrates extraordinary literary merit.
  

• The Writer-in-Residence Fellowship: Offering up to six months of financial support, this fellowship allows writers to focus on significant projects while receiving editorial guidance and a stipend covering living expenses.
  

• Submissions for Fiction, Poetry, and Essays: Open year-round, The Paris Review provides emerging and established writers the chance to be published in one of the world’s most respected literary journals.
  

These awards and programs underscore The Paris Review's ongoing mission to nurture literary talent, celebrate artistic innovation, and honor the enduring craft of writing.

For more on writing contests, literary awards, and career-building opportunities at The Paris Review, continue reading: The Paris Review: Annual Writing Contests, Literary Awards & Opportunities.

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WHY THE PARIS REVIEW MATTERS

Today, The Paris Review remains a cultural touchstone. Its legacy extends beyond its printed pages into classrooms, literary festivals, and the creative consciousness of writers worldwide. Its commitment to championing literary excellence, fostering emerging talent, and documenting the craft of writing ensures its lasting influence on the literary landscape.

In a constantly shifting publishing world, The Paris Review endures as more than just a literary magazine—it is a living archive of literary greatness, a space where the voices of the past, present, and future converge to redefine the art of storytelling.