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Novus means “new” in Latin…
fresh, extraordinary, novel, unheard, revived…
NOVUS seeks work that embodies the spirit of any work that is “new and novel” — this is interpreted broadly, but writing that exudes a fresh and innovative approach is welcomed (and often adored!). See Christine Friedlander’s “Light Guard” in the 2019 archives for just one example. We focus on pieces that move us through the unique use of language, and we are especially interested in works that exhibit new, modern perspectives on life and the environment around us. We also love a traditional story well told and with a compelling voice. We love voice-driven pieces and are open to any literary (no genre writing) work in fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. We will also consider plays for our digital editions only.
Submissions open each February for our Spring Digital Editions (see Submittable) which are published in early May each year. Submissions for our Fall Print Edition will open each year in September, with a publication date of late November. For any questions or more precise information, please email novus@cumberland.edu.
Formatting and Length:
All work should be in Times New Roman with 12 point font, double-spaced.
We accept Poetry, Prose (Fiction and Creative Nonfiction/Memoir), and Plays. We also accept visual art of all forms. Submit up to six poems; all poems should be in one Word document. Please include a brief bio with your submission.
As of right now, there are no restrictions on the amount of prose one can submit. 4000-6000 maximum words. There is some flexibility with word count in the digital editions. Your work may also be considered for an annual Fall Print Edition. If accepted for this additional printing, we would notify you, and you may accept or decline.
We only consider unpublished work, but we do accept simultaneous submissions. If the work is accepted elsewhere after you submit to us, please email us immediately to let us know, and congratulations!
Lastly, NOVUS reserves the right to make minor grammatical adjustments to your piece, but larger revisions (if accepted) are the responsibility of the author.
Thank you, and we look forward to reviewing your work!
Submit via Submittable:
