Illuminations of the Fantastic is a monthly online magazine that encompasses works of Fantasy, Science Fiction, Horror, Adventure, Mystery, Poetry, History, Travelogue, Essay, and Review.
The magazine is the endeavor of Nashville-based writers who wish to enrich local culture and bring attention to their passion for storytelling. Their diverse interests span centuries, from Homeric epic to contemporary science fiction; from Beowulf, Shakespeare, and Milton to Robin Hobb, Brandon Sanderson, and Ernest Cline; from Chretien de Troyes, Marie de France, and Thomas Malory to the Inklings, T.H. White, and Ursula K. LeGuin.
The magazine was founded by co-editors Sam Stephens and Philip J. Palacios in order to present the stories they share a delight in reading, stories that illuminate the human experience through a lens of the fantastic.
Illuminations of the Fantastic has been named One of the Best Literary Magazines of 2023 by the influential writer's resource website ReedsyBlog. We are thrilled to be named by Reedsy, and excited to share in this adventure of publishing new stories!
Can I submit to Illuminations of the Fantastic?
Call for short poems
We are looking for the absolute best (single) poem you have inside you, written anew, crafted with care, beautiful and true. Traditional forms welcome. 10-25 lines. Send submissions to illuminationsfantastic (at) gmail (dot) com. Submitting is not a guarantee to being published.
All Other Submission Considerations:
Feel free to send your work to us as a sample of your abilities, so long as it fits the purview of the magazine. Emailing us your work is just that: a chance for us to see what you’ve done. If we think there’s a fit, we’ll respond. If not, please don’t take offense or be discouraged. We’re all writers here, trying to make our way in this small corner of the universe.
Follow us.
Illuminations of the Fantastic is on several platforms, updating you on artwork and other announcements before each issue launches. You can follow us through platforms linked at the top, or selecting from this list:
Instagram: @illuminationsfantastic
Facebook: @IlluminationsFantastic
Email us.
illuminationsfantastic (at) gmail (dot) com
Content Rating.
All stories published by IF can be assumed to have content ranging between PG-13 and a soft R-rating.
Past releases.
Every new issue of Illuminations of the Fantastic is featured on the home page. Readers should visit the Archive page for all past issues.
Interested in contacting one of our authors?
Please send your message or request to illuminationsfantastic (at) gmail (dot) com, which will be forwarded to the intended party.