Caveat Lector

Caveat Lector is an online magazine dedicated to literature, social and cultural criticism, philosophy, and the arts. Founded in the Bay Area, it has been a home for vital, independent creative thought for over three decades — publishing poetry, fiction, essays, memoir, photography, drama, humor, and more, from contributors across the country and beyond.

Each issue brings together voices that are singular and often unexpected, united by a commitment to serious, ambitious work that resists easy categorization. The magazine is published twice a year and maintains a print archive spanning more than two decades of issues.

I have been a co-editor of Caveat Lector for over two decades, working alongside founder Christopher Bernard and fellow editors Jonah Raskin and Steven Hill. Over that time I've had a hand in shaping the editorial direction of the magazine, selecting and developing work from contributors, and helping to sustain an independent literary voice that isn't beholden to trends or institutions.

It has been one of the more rewarding constants in my creative life — a reminder that there is always an audience for writing that takes ideas seriously and treats readers as intelligent adults.

Caveat Lector is always happy to receive submissions of all stripes. Whether you write poetry, fiction, or essays; work in photography, visual art, or music; or have something that doesn't fit neatly into any category — we want to hear from you. The magazine has a long tradition of welcoming unexpected forms and voices, and that openness remains very much alive.

Submissions and inquiries can be sent directly to the editorial team at caveatlectormagazine@gmail.com. Full submission guidelines are available on the magazine's website.

The magazine is run by a small, dedicated editorial team based in the Bay Area.