Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What do you look for in a poem? A story? Any certain element?
A: We love to be captivated by pieces that flow well, use language beautifully, introduce literary elements in an organic way, and are enjoyable to read. In general, our poetry is known for being lyric, while our fiction is known for being less so. Basically: our taste is continually developing, so definitely share what you’ve got — there’s certainly no downside!

Q: I just submitted six poems and three pieces of prose, and none of them made it into the journal. This means I can’t submit until the next reading period, right?
A: Wrong! You may submit a maximum of two (2) times per genre per reading period.

Q: I was wondering if the length of time a piece is In-Progress on Submittable means anything? For instance, if I submitted something a month ago, and it’s still in-progress, does that mean that it has a higher chance of being accepted?
A: As we have continued to expand our reach and submission pool, it has become increasingly difficult to respond in a matter of days or weeks to submissions. Therefore, the delay experienced in hearing from us may be caused by a number of factors—from the volume of submissions that come in on any given day to, yes, interest in accepting some part of a submission.

Q: What are you expected to include in a cover letter?
A: We’d like a cover letter with a brief (a paragraph or so, generally no more than five sentences) third-person biography. Of course, well-written work stands alone anywhere, but our lives would be much easier if we had a bio to use attached to the submission, in the case of acceptance. P.S. Hello’s and specifics never hurt!

Q: Will issues of The Adroit Journal be completely available online from now on?
A: Going forward, the journal will be primarily online, yes. We like it that way.

Q: Is there any age limit for submitting? Do you ever end up publishing pieces by really young people?
A: There is no age limit for submitting; we simply publish what we perceive to be the absolute best (I hesitate to use that word) work we get. If that came from someone aged 11 or 110, it wouldn’t make a difference.

Q: What is Adroit’s Sexual Harassment Policy?
A: The Adroit Journal does not tolerate sexual harassment in any shape or form. Our culture is based on mutual respect and collaboration. Sexual harassment is a serious violation of those principles. If we determine that anyone on our staff has been in violation of this policy, they will be immediately dismissed. Likewise, if we determine that a current or past contributor has violated this policy, their work will be removed from our website immediately.

We do not take accusations of harassment and abuse alleged by our staff or contributors lightly. We have established a process to ensure that we act with respect and consideration. We understand the gravity of these moments and the importance of a careful and measured response.