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Applause Journal History

Applause is an award-winning literary journal housed at the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith. We have been publishing poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, art and photography since 1980. We are a proud member of the Southern Literary Festival organization and we have traditionally published our print issue each spring.

The 2020-2021 academic year was a time of transition for Applause as we moved to a national literary journal devoted to the advancement of undergraduate work on the national stage from an undergraduate literary magazine that used to publish work only from UAFS students.

While we will continue to honor our local legacy and make previous issues available electronically, as we move forward with our transition we believe we can be of maximum service to all undergraduate writers by accepting submissions from any student currently enrolled in an undergraduate literary program at any university across the country. We adhere to the ethical standards according to the Council of Literary Magazines and Presses.

For Issue 34

We are eager to explore the rich tapestry of the human experience through the following thematic elements:

  • Sensory Reverie - Dive into the sensory realm as we seek submissions that evoke the essence of sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. We encourage you to paint vivid scenes, compose mellifluous verses, or craft prose that awakens the senses of our readers.

  • Rhythms of Resistance - In a world filled with challenges and adversities, we are interested in narratives of strength, perseverance, and activism. Share stories of personal resilience, accounts of overcoming obstacles, or reflections on the power of advocacy and social change. Illuminate the indomitable human spirit through your words and art.

  • Place Personified - Places have stories to tell. We invite you to submit pieces where the setting is not merely a backdrop but a living, breathing character in itself. Whether it's a bustling cityscape, a cozy hometown, or an uncharted wilderness, let the setting come alive and influence your work in profound ways.”

Entries will be accepted through March 15, 2024.