Free Folk

Free Folk is an independent publication devoted to literature and creative expression as a force for connection—a gathering place where we can witness and meet one another with attention and intention. The print-only journal releases twice a year in the summer and winter.

Weaving together what we call ‘kitchen table philosophy’ through literary expression in the form of creative essays, poetry, storytelling, and occasional photograph or illustration, the idea behind the project is that the thoughts and inspirations on how to exist, strive, and prosper that come from people from all walks of life are able to be a guiding and connecting force in the modern world. Free Folk aims to be a decentralized but connected network of ideas, stories, and visions that inspire hope, gratitude, and activity.

Quota: This project has established a quota. Submissions will close when it is reached.

Issue 2 Free Open

Closes on Friday, November 20, 2026 11:59 PM EST (in 56 days).

We are inviting folks to create and submit their work to be considered for the second issue of Free Folk, a new independent print journal publication.

Free Folk is a project dedicated to the idea that short-form writing and creative expression can act as a force of connection in our modern world, and that inspirations on how to exist, strive, and prosper can come from all sorts of people with all sorts of backgrounds and experiences. Thus the tagline for the journal is 'philosophy from the kitchen table'; a call to illuminate and share the many conversations, ideas, and articulations we may usually keep close to home, but can offer valuably to the world. Check out our website to read more about Free Folk.

The first issue was an incredible success, and we were deeply moved by being able to share a variety of beautiful work with so many people. Our second issue will be released just before the holiday season and is centered around the theme of generosity. Free Folk is a flexible container for creative expression, and contains essays, short stories, poetry, photography, and illustration (though all in black and white), so if you decide to contribute, do feel free to do so in any way you please. Literary contributions should be relatively ‘short’ and kept to no longer than 1000 words.

The theme of generosity is intentionally open. We want to leave room for you to write about whatever is truly alive in you — the questions you’re carrying, the things you’re noticing, or the ideas you keep returning to. You might use the word generosity as a jumping-off point, or you might jump right past it and follow whatever is sparking your curiosity. There are no rules about where the theme needs to take you. We’re simply excited to read what emerges.

The deadline for contributions is November 20th.

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