What we publish
Personal essays and creative nonfiction about the messy parts of being alive: grief, family, the body, desire, rage, love that didn’t hold, love that held too tightly…
We’re not looking for tidy endings. We want writing that trusts the reader.
Read us before you submit.
What we don’t publish
Fiction and poetry. We love both, but they’re not what we do here.
A few specifics
- 2,500 words maximum.
- One submission at a time. Wait to hear from us before sending another.
- Simultaneous submissions are fine. Just withdraw from us if you’re accepted elsewhere.
- Previously published work is considered case by case. Tell us where it ran and why you want us to have it.
- All rights revert to you. If you republish, credit TMS.
- A photo of yourself or something that fits is welcome but not required.
- We respond to everything. Give us 90 days before following up.
On AI
The work we publish comes from specific human lives. By submitting, you’re confirming that the writing and structure came from you, not a generative AI tool. Basic spelling and grammar tools are fine. Anything beyond that should be disclosed in your cover letter. Undisclosed AI use is grounds for rejection or retraction.
Why we’re here
The Manifest Station has been publishing since 2011 because we believe words matter. Especially now.
We’re looking for pieces that refuse to look away. For writers who talk themselves out of submitting.
If that’s you, send us something.
— Angela & Amy
