Comstock Review, Inc.

http://comstockreview.org

Magazine, Press

Poetry

The Comstock Review (Journal) – 1987; Comstock Review, Inc. – November 2019

Syracuse, New York

Carolyn Ostrander and John M. Bellinger

Managing Editors

Mission Statement: The mission of Comstock Review, Inc. (“CRInc”) is to promote the writing, reading and appreciation of poetry, and to provide opportunities for poets of all ages to share their work with broad audiences. We work to bring high-quality poetry to a wider audience through print, electronic media and in-person activities. We seek to encourage and honor diverse poetic voices. We affirm the “classic” talents of seasoned writers and give a never-forgotten hand up to new, rising talent. At the same time we work to attract new audiences and to broaden awareness of rich poetic heritages and innovative forms of expression. Editorial Focus of The Comstock Review (poetry journal): Our primary vehicle for achieving this mission is the volunteer editorial board that has overseen publication of The Comstock Review from its founding over thirty-five years ago as the local poetry publication, Poetpourri (renamed The Comstock Review beginning in 1997). The Comstock Review (the poetry journal) is proud of its long-established reputation of publishing the finest known and unknown poets throughout North America. The editors use an anonymized peer review process, and choose poems solely on what we consider to be their artistic merits. The editors bring diverse preferences and interests to the peer review process, collaborating to select the a broad mix of the best poems submitted. Editors share the following guidelines in general: Well crafted verse, either traditional or non-traditional, A poem that tickles your brain long after the page has turned, Theme or approach that casts new light on the world and the human condition, Effective use of poetic devices and sonic qualities, Refreshing, distinctive imagery and diction.

yes

http://comstockreview.org/open-reading-period/

From 01 / 03 / 01 -31

01 - 04 Due to unexpected volume we are currently responding 1-3 mo. past close of submissions.

none

print

yes

http://comstockreview.org/annual-contest/

2

12.50

$30.00

about 150

250-300

1-2

N/A

Whether new or returning, Welcome! We focus more on poems than on credentials, but it's ok to say hi! Include contact info in COVER letters - This is the place for name /address & bio - NOT on filenames or poems About bios: Be Brief (50 word limit)

We care about content -and- craft; sincerity and playfulness. Show us what language can do, with thoughtful sound & imagery: a compelling read, a startling insight, meaningful use of poetic technique. We prefer Submittable but also accept USPS.

THE POEM IS THE THING. Keep writing, keep crafting, send your very best work. You're not too young (or old); it's not too late. The editors here will appreciate it for what it is. THANKS for sharing, and being brave!

We use anonymized reading in our poem & chapbook contests. Editors screen submissions. In contests they send the top 25 to our judge with no names. In 2015 we were shocked when Ted Kooser won the chapbook prize; in 2021 it was a winner's 1st book!

Readers who are open, inquiring, & thoughtful. We try to widen our readership by making copies available in schools, local libraries, waiting rooms and (when we can) jails. Our ideal reader may be new to reading poetry or a lifelong learner. Welcome!