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FOR THE WRITERS

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THE SUN

Updated: Mar 12

The Sun Literary Journal: A Platform for Transformative Writing


The Sun Magazine embraces the power of storytelling to illuminate the human experience. Through essays, fiction, and poetry, the publication features work that captivates, inspires, and challenges perspectives. By sharing deeply personal narratives and thought-provoking creative works, The Sun explores life’s complexities with emotional honesty and literary depth.


The magazine's mission extends beyond publishing; it seeks to foster a literary community that celebrates diverse voices and lived experiences. Committed to amplifying underrepresented perspectives, The Sun highlights writers of color, queer and trans writers, writers with disabilities, incarcerated writers, and others marginalized by circumstance or identity. Every story matters, and every voice deserves to be heard.


Believing in writing as a force for change, The Sun inspires empathy, reshapes perceptions, and builds connections across differences. Through its publication, contests, and fellowship programs, the magazine supports emerging and established writers, providing a platform for work that speaks to both heart and mind.


 

ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION


Writing published in The Sun has won the Pushcart Prize and the PEN/Robert J. Dau Short Story Prize for Emerging Writers. Our contributors’ work has been selected for numerous Best American anthologies, including Best American Essays, Best American Short Stories, Best American Poetry, and Best American Science Fiction & Fantasy.


 

WHAT THEY PUBLISH


The Sun seeks exceptional writing that resonates deeply with readers. Selected works receive a minimum payment of $200, with additional compensation based on page length. The publication values poems that explore universal themes with emotional clarity, offering fresh perspectives on often difficult subjects.


They magazine offers competitive compensation to contributors, with payments ranging from $300 to $2,000 for nonfiction, $300 to $1,500 for fiction, and $100 to $250 for poetry. These rates may vary based on factors such as the length and quality of the submission. The Sun Magazine is particularly interested in narrative-driven, accessible works that delve into the human experience, making personal stories resonate on a universal level.


  • Personal Essay: Submit the essay you never thought would find a home—the one that’s deeply personal and unguarded. The magazine seeks reflections on hard-earned victories, significant failures, and transformative experiences. We are drawn to clear-eyed explorations that tackle complex questions and resist simple conclusions. Stories should transcend individual experiences, resonating with universal truths.


  • Fiction: The magazine seeks emotionally resonant stories that illuminate the human condition. Whether exploring tragedy, comedy, or satire, submissions should leave a lasting impact. We value work that takes risks, reveals difficult truths, and features unique narratives with compelling characters. All genres are welcome.


  • Poetry: The magazine welcomes poetry that explores universal mysteries and personal truths. We seek work that balances introspection with revelation. Whether reflecting on relationships, offering spiritual meditations, or crafting elegies for what’s been lost, we are drawn to narrative-driven, accessible poems that resonate with depth and meaning.


 

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES


  • Language: We accept submissions in English from anywhere in the world.

  • Length: We do not enforce strict word limits, though we typically publish work under 7,000 words. Poets may submit up to five poems in one submission file.

  • Formatting: Use a standard 12-point font with double-spaced paragraphs and 1-inch margins. Include your name, submission title, and genre on the first page. While attention to detail is appreciated, submissions won’t be disqualified for formatting inconsistencies.

  • How to Submit: We accept submissions online via Submittable with a $2.50 fee to cover processing costs.

  • Mail Submissions: Submissions may be mailed with no additional fee to: The Sun Editorial Department, 109 N. Roberson St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for a response. Manuscripts will not be returned.

  • Simultaneous Submissions: We welcome simultaneous submissions but request immediate notification if your work is accepted elsewhere.

  • Response Time: Our typical response time is three months, though delays may occur due to high submission volume.

  • Payment and Rights: We offer payment upon publication via PayPal or direct deposit. We purchase one-time print and online publishing rights.

 

ANNUAL COMPETITIONS AND AWARDS


The Sun is dedicated to celebrating literary excellence through several annual writing competitions and recognition opportunities:


  • Emerging Writer Award: Recognizes exceptional new voices in creative writing across fiction, poetry, and personal essays. Winners receive $1,000, publication in The Sun, and a feature interview.


  • Writing Fellowship: A selective opportunity offering recipients a $2,500 stipend, one-on-one editorial mentoring, and guaranteed publication of at least one work.


  • Best of The Sun Anthology Series: Compiles standout works published throughout the year into an annual anthology, with contributors receiving $500 per selected work and additional exposure.


  • Reader’s Choice Award: Allows subscribers to vote on their favorite published piece of the year, with winners receiving a $1,000 cash prize and recognition in a featured article.


These competitions support our mission of promoting exceptional writing while encouraging new talent from diverse backgrounds.


 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


  • Queries: The Sun does not review queries; it is important that all writers send complete manuscripts only.

  • Submission Status: Track online submissions through Submittable. Mailed submissions are not tracked.

  • Withdrawing Work: Use Submittable to withdraw submissions or individual poems from a multi-poem submission.


Join The Sun in shaping the literary landscape by sharing your unique voice. We look forward to reading your work.


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