The Southern Review

The Southern Review: Eight Decades of Literary Excellence and Innovation

Since its founding in 1935 at Louisiana State University, The Southern Review has stood as a pillar of literary distinction, renowned for showcasing some of the most compelling voices in contemporary literature. With a deep commitment to publishing fiction, poetry, and essays of the highest quality, The Southern Review has become a cornerstone in the American literary landscape, blending tradition with modern literary innovation.

What began as a regional literary magazine quickly evolved into a national literary force, earning a reputation for excellence through its dedication to publishing works that challenge, inspire, and endure. Its pages have become a home for groundbreaking voices from across the globe while remaining deeply rooted in its Southern heritage.

The journal’s influence extends far beyond its printed issues, shaping literary culture through its digital presence, public readings, and participation in national literary festivals. Over the decades, The Southern Review has forged a legacy of literary greatness by nurturing emerging talent and celebrating established literary icons, ensuring its enduring relevance in the ever-changing literary world.

A Legacy of Literary Greatness

Co-founded by literary icons Robert Penn Warren and Cleanth Brooks, The Southern Review was established with the mission of fostering literary excellence while spotlighting the distinct cultural and artistic traditions of the American South. Its early issues featured works by celebrated authors such as Eudora Welty, Flannery O’Connor, and Katherine Anne Porter, helping define Southern literature for generations.

The journal’s focus expanded beyond regional boundaries, embracing a wide array of voices that reflect the complexities of the human experience. Through its storied history, The Southern Review has published literary legends like Sylvia Plath, Robert Frost, and Seamus Heaney, contributing significantly to the broader canon of American literature.

Publishing Legacy

The Southern Review has long been synonymous with literary prestige. Its pages have featured works that have gone on to receive major literary honors, including appearances in The Best American Series, The Pushcart Prize Anthologies, and The O. Henry Prize Stories.

Notable works include:

Eudora Welty’s Short Stories: Early publication of her stories in The Southern Review helped establish her as a defining voice in American literature.
Flannery O’Connor’s Fiction: O’Connor’s sharp, insightful narratives found an early home in the journal, cementing her literary legacy.
Sylvia Plath’s Poetry: The Southern Review published several of Plath’s early poems, showcasing her evolving voice before she rose to international fame.

Comittment to Emerging Writers

While The Southern Review has published literary legends, its heart lies in its ongoing support for emerging voices. The journal consistently seeks out fresh perspectives and new talent through its open submissions process.

Each quarterly issue features a carefully curated selection of fiction, poetry, and nonfiction, ensuring a balance of established authors and emerging writers. This dedication to literary discovery has helped launch the careers of many authors who have gone on to receive critical acclaim.

Annual Writing Contests

The Southern Review enhances its mission of supporting literary excellence through its prestigious annual writing contests, offering recognition, publication, and cash prizes to outstanding writers:

The James Olney Fiction Prize: Awarded annually for outstanding short fiction, offering a $1,500 prize and publication in the journal.
The Ava Leavell Haymon Poetry Prize: Recognizing exceptional poetry, this contest awards $1,000 and publication.
The Creative Nonfiction Award: Honoring compelling narrative nonfiction, winners receive $1,500 and publication in The Southern Review.
Emerging Writer Spotlight: Dedicated to recognizing emerging talent, this annual feature highlights standout work from writers early in their careers, offering publication and editorial mentorship.
Editors’ Choice Awards: Selected from the year’s submissions, these awards honor works of exceptional literary merit across all genres, often leading to appearances in prestigious anthologies like The Best American Series and The Pushcart Prize Anthologies.
Reader’s Award for Best Story: Voted on by the journal’s subscribers, this award celebrates reader-favorite works, offering public recognition and additional exposure.

These contests and awards provide invaluable recognition and support for emerging and established writers, reinforcing the journal’s role as a literary incubator.

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

A Literary Tradition that Endures

The Southern Review has adapted to the changing literary world by expanding its reach through digital platforms and maintaining its commitment to excellence. Its website features author interviews, writing tips, and selections from past issues, ensuring its impact extends beyond the printed page.

Why The Southern Review Matters

For nearly a century, The Southern Review has championed literature that reflects the depth and diversity of human experience. Its enduring commitment to discovering new voices, celebrating literary icons, and advancing literary culture cements its place as one of the most respected literary journals in the United States. By fostering a space where tradition and innovation meet, The Southern Review continues to shape the literary landscape, providing readers and writers alike with stories that inspire, challenge, and endure.

FOR THE WRITERS