The Parallel
Open now for fiction, nonfiction, and other work.
Last updatedThe Parallel is a literary journal seeking sharp, observant, and cliché-free fiction, essays, humor, sociology, and criticism, with no payment offered.
Response time info: within 30 days
Read the full guidelines at readparallel.com↗Submission calls
Stories: Compelling narrative fiction, no laser battles, no aliens, no cyberpunk cities; prefer realistic, well-written arguments over speculative elements. Length: 1,200–10,000 words.
Reflections: Personal essays, cultural criticism, or specific observation with a strong, distinct voice. Length: 1,000–5,000 words.
Appearances: Precise, descriptive essays on the texture of contemporary life, written with forensic detail. Length: 1,000–5,000 words.
Sketches: Short, punchy, and funny pieces such as satirical monologues, fake listicles, or absurd vignettes. Length: 500–2,000 words.
The Review: Deep cultural analysis and criticism, only accepting reviews of works by deceased creators. Length: 1,000–5,000 words.
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