Not for Leisure is seeking writing for its inaugural issue! Submissions* are open to any and all NYC-based writers. While we are particularly interested in poetry and criticism, we encourage work from across genres, languages, and modalities.

Please send us your work using this form.

Deadline to submit: SUNDAY, JANUARY 11th, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST

*We regard submissions like a knock on the proverbial door; consider this as a gesture to join N4L as a community member, creative co-conspirer, and friend. We hope for the work you share to introduce us to your writing practice (if not already acquainted) so that we can likewise include you in our goings-on: workshops, art shares, readings, etc. Submitted pieces will still be considered directly for publication, but we may also reach out with interest in seeing what else you have or may want to write for the zine.

If you are interested in performing at the next event or getting involved generally, reach out to us at notforleisurenyc@gmail.com