CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE

Scope & Guideline

Exploring the Evolution of Literary Voices

Introduction

Explore the comprehensive scope of CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE through our detailed guidelines, including its aims and scope. Stay updated with trending and emerging topics, and delve into declining areas to understand shifts in academic interest. Our guidelines also showcase highly cited topics, featuring influential research making a significant impact. Additionally, discover the latest published papers and those with high citation counts, offering a snapshot of current scholarly conversations. Use these guidelines to explore CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE in depth and align your research initiatives with current academic trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0010-7484
PublisherUNIV WISCONSIN PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2002 to 2024
AbbreviationCONTEMP LITERATURE / Contemp. Lit.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressJOURNAL DIVISION, 728 State Street, Suite 443, MADISON, WI 53706, UNITED STATES

Aims and Scopes

CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE aims to explore and critique the intersections of literature with contemporary social, political, and cultural issues. The journal emphasizes innovative narrative forms, diverse voices, and critical theoretical frameworks, providing a platform for both established and emerging scholars in the field.
  1. Interdisciplinary Approaches to Literature:
    The journal incorporates various disciplines such as cultural studies, postcolonial studies, feminist theory, and queer theory to analyze literary texts and their broader societal implications.
  2. Focus on Contemporary Voices:
    CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE prioritizes works by contemporary authors, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, allowing for a rich exploration of diverse perspectives in modern storytelling.
  3. Critical Engagement with Social Issues:
    The journal frequently addresses pressing social issues such as race, immigration, and climate change through literary analysis, emphasizing the role of literature in reflecting and shaping societal narratives.
  4. Innovative Narrative Forms:
    It explores new narrative techniques and forms, including autofiction and speculative fiction, highlighting how these methodologies challenge traditional storytelling conventions.
  5. Emphasis on Global Literature:
    The journal includes studies of global literature, focusing on transnational themes and the impact of globalization on narrative forms and content.
Recent publications in CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE reveal a number of trending and emerging themes that reflect contemporary societal concerns and innovative literary practices. These themes are gaining traction and shaping the future direction of the journal.
  1. Postcolonial and Transnational Narratives:
    There is a growing emphasis on postcolonial narratives and transnational studies, indicating an increased interest in how literature reflects and responds to global power dynamics and cultural exchanges.
  2. Environmental and Climate Literature:
    The emergence of environmental themes, including climate change and ecological crises, is becoming prominent in literary discussions, showcasing literature's role in addressing urgent global issues.
  3. Intersectionality in Literary Analysis:
    An increasing focus on intersectionality—examining how various social categories such as race, gender, and class intersect in literature—reflects a more nuanced understanding of identity and representation.
  4. Digital and New Media Narratives:
    Research on digital literature and the influence of new media on storytelling practices is on the rise, highlighting how technology shapes contemporary literary forms and reader engagement.
  5. Autofiction and Personal Narratives:
    The trend towards autofiction and personal narratives reflects a growing interest in subjective experiences and the blurring of boundaries between fiction and autobiography, resonating with contemporary readers.

Declining or Waning

While CONTEMPORARY LITERATURE has maintained a dynamic focus on various themes, certain areas have seen a decline in prominence. The following themes are becoming less frequent in recent publications, indicating a shift in the journal's focus over time.
  1. Traditional Literary Canon:
    There has been a noticeable decrease in articles centered on the traditional literary canon, as the journal increasingly emphasizes contemporary and diverse voices that challenge established literary hierarchies.
  2. Purely Historical Literary Studies:
    Research that focuses solely on historical literary studies without connecting to contemporary issues is waning. The journal seems to favor analyses that relate historical contexts to current societal challenges.
  3. Formalism and Aestheticism:
    Interest in formalist approaches, which prioritize aesthetics over content and context, appears to be declining. The journal's current trajectory favors critical approaches that engage with social and political themes over purely formal analyses.
  4. Eurocentric Perspectives:
    The journal has shifted away from predominantly Eurocentric literary analyses, reflecting a broader commitment to inclusivity and the exploration of non-Western narratives.

Similar Journals

Interdisciplinary Literary Studies

Unveiling the Multifaceted Dimensions of Literary Theory
Publisher: PENN STATE UNIV PRESSISSN: 1524-8429Frequency: 4 issues/year

Interdisciplinary Literary Studies is a prominent journal published by Penn State University Press that delves into the rich and diverse field of literature and literary theory. Established to foster scholarly dialogues, this journal embraces an interdisciplinary approach, making it a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and students interested in the multifaceted dimensions of literature. With an ISSN of 1524-8429 and an E-ISSN of 2161-427X, the journal operates without open access, reflecting its commitment to maintaining rigorous academic standards. The journal is ranked in the Q3 quartile of literature and literary theory for 2023 and holds a Scopus rank of #730 out of 1106, placing it in the 33rd percentile, which further emphasizes its emerging stature within the academic community. Spanning converged years from 2017 to 2024, Interdisciplinary Literary Studies continues to impact the dialogue within the humanities, encouraging nuanced analyses and interdisciplinary connections that push the boundaries of literary scholarship. Set in the United States, the journal is dedicated to exploring contemporary and historical texts, critical theories, and diverse literary forms, making it an essential publication for anyone passionate about the evolving landscape of literature.

Journal of Literary Studies

Exploring the depths of literature and theory.
Publisher: UNISA PRESSISSN: 0256-4718Frequency: 4 issues/year

Journal of Literary Studies, published by UNISA PRESS, is a premier open access journal dedicated to advancing the field of literature and literary theory. With its ISSN 0256-4718 and E-ISSN 1753-5387, the journal has established itself as a leading platform for innovative research since its inception in 1985, with a notable convergence period running through to 2024. Recognized in the Q1 quartile of literature and literary theory, the journal ranks impressively at #236 out of 1106 in its category according to Scopus, highlighting its impact in the arts and humanities with a percentile rank of 78th. The journal's open access model, adopted in 2022, reflects its commitment to accessibility and dissemination of knowledge globally, making it an essential resource for researchers, academics, and students alike. With an editorial focus on interdisciplinary approaches and contemporary critical discourse, the Journal of Literary Studies serves as a vital vessel for the exchange of ideas and scholarly dialogue in the intricate landscape of literary studies.

Wasafiri

Connecting cultural narratives with scholarly rigor.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0269-0055Frequency: 4 issues/year

Wasafiri, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, stands as a pivotal platform in the fields of Cultural Studies and Literature and Literary Theory. With a proud publication history extending from 1984 to 2024, this esteemed journal delivers critical insights and cutting-edge research that explore the intersections of culture, literature, and global discourse. Renowned for its academic rigor, Wasafiri holds a Q3 ranking in both its categories as of 2023, showcasing its solid contributions to the scholarly community, reflected in its respectable Scopus rankings—evidencing its relevance and authority, particularly in the literature field. While available through subscription, the journal emphasizes the dissemination of diverse voices and innovative scholarship, appealing to researchers, professionals, and students eager to deepen their understanding of contemporary cultural narratives. Positioned in the United Kingdom, Wasafiri continues to foster vibrant dialogues that challenge conventional paradigms, making it an invaluable resource for anyone engaged in the humanities.

JOURNAL OF MODERN LITERATURE

Illuminating Modern Texts Through Scholarly Insight
Publisher: INDIANA UNIV PRESSISSN: 0022-281XFrequency: 4 issues/year

JOURNAL OF MODERN LITERATURE, published by Indiana University Press, is a distinguished peer-reviewed journal that delves into critical examinations of modern literary texts and theories. Since its inception, the journal has served as a vital platform for scholars dedicated to the exploration of contemporary literature, making significant contributions to the discourse within the field. With an impressive ranking of Q2 in the Literature and Literary Theory category as of 2023, it positions itself among the top-tier journals in its domain, reflecting its strong impact within academic circles. This journal not only fosters scholarly dialogue but also embraces innovative approaches to literary criticism, ensuring relevance in today’s dynamic cultural landscape. Researchers, professionals, and students will find a rich repository of articles that engage with various modern literary paradigms, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the intricate relationships between literature and broader socio-cultural contexts. Though it does not operate under an open access model, the journal's extensive reach through its digital ISSN (1529-1464) and print ISSN (0022-281X) allows for valuable insights to be disseminated to the appropriate audiences.

Partial Answers-Journal of Literature and the History of Ideas

Bridging Literature and Philosophy for Deeper Insights
Publisher: JOHNS HOPKINS UNIV PRESSISSN: 1565-3668Frequency: 2 issues/year

Partial Answers - Journal of Literature and the History of Ideas, published by the esteemed Johns Hopkins University Press, is a vital academic resource for scholars interested in the dynamic intersections of literature, philosophy, and cultural studies. With an established track record since its inception in 2003, this journal fosters rigorous dialogue and exploration across disciplines, offering a comprehensive platform for innovative research and critical thought. Highlighted by its 2023 Scopus rankings, it holds positions within the Q2 and Q3 quartiles, indicating a significant impact in its respective fields—specifically in Literature and Literary Theory, and Cultural Studies. Readers can expect cutting-edge articles that challenge conventional wisdom and probe the historical contexts of literary works. Although the journal is not Open Access, it remains committed to the dissemination of scholarly knowledge, making it a cornerstone for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of literature's role in shaping ideas. With its diverse contributions and thematic depth, Partial Answers is essential for anyone engaged in the nuanced study of literary narratives and philosophical inquiries.

Journal of Postcolonial Writing

Illuminating the Intersections of Literature and Identity
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1744-9855Frequency: 6 issues/year

Journal of Postcolonial Writing, published by ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD, stands as a pivotal platform in the field of postcolonial studies and literary theory. Since its inception in 2005, this esteemed journal has cultivated a dedicated space for scholarly discourse, focusing on the complex interplay between literature, culture, and colonial histories. With an impressive Q1 ranking in the 2023 Literature and Literary Theory category and a notable Scopus rank of 97/1106, the journal occupies a vital place in the academic landscape, achieving a significant percentile of the 91st. Researchers and students alike will find the journal’s commitment to exploring diverse narratives and critical frameworks invaluable, making it an essential resource for those engaged in contemporary literary scholarship. Although not open access, readers can access high-quality research that contributes to meaningful conversations within the discipline, supporting the journal’s objective to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

TEXT & KRITIK

Unveiling critical frameworks for contemporary analysis.
Publisher: EDITION TEXT KRITIK GMBHISSN: 0040-5329Frequency: 4 issues/year

TEXT & KRITIK, an esteemed academic journal published by EDITION TEXT KRITIK GMBH in Germany, serves as a critical platform for advancing scholarship in the fields of literature and literary theory. With an ISSN of 0040-5329, this publication aims to foster rigorous discourse and stimulate intellectual inquiry from 2009 to 2023, reflecting the evolving landscape of literary studies. Although categorized in the fourth quartile (Q4) in the 2023 measure of literature and literary theory, TEXT & KRITIK consistently engages with a diverse array of literary perspectives and methodologies, addressing both historical texts and contemporary literature. Researchers, professionals, and students alike are encouraged to explore this resource to deepen their understanding of critical texts and theoretical frameworks. While it does not currently operate on an open access model, its curated content remains a vital resource for anyone dedicated to exploring the nuances of literary analysis and criticism.

Wenshan Review of Literature and Culture

Advancing Critical Discourse in Literary Studies
Publisher: NATL CHENGCHI UNIVISSN: 2077-1282Frequency: 2 issues/year

Wenshan Review of Literature and Culture, an esteemed journal published by NATIONAL CHENGCHI UNIVERSITY in Taiwan, serves as a vital platform for interdisciplinary scholarship in the realms of literature and cultural studies. With its ISSN 2077-1282 and E-ISSN 2077-1290, this journal aims to engage researchers, professionals, and students alike in critical discourse while significantly contributing to the academic community's understanding of contemporary literary and cultural phenomena. As of 2023, it holds a respectable position in Q4 for Cultural Studies and Q3 for Literature and Literary Theory, reflecting its growing influence within these disciplines. Although it operates under a non-open access model, the journal's commitment to quality research is evident in its rigorous peer-review process and dedication to publishing innovative ideas. By converging diverse perspectives from 2016 through 2024, the Wenshan Review not only fosters a deeper understanding of its subjects but also acts as a bridge connecting scholars from various backgrounds to share their insights more broadly and effectively.

CHICAGO REVIEW

Fostering Innovation in Literary Expression
Publisher: CHICAGO REVIEWISSN: 0009-3696Frequency: 4 issues/year

CHICAGO REVIEW is a prestigious literary journal published in the United States, with a mission to explore the rich tapestry of contemporary literature and literary theory. With its ISSN 0009-3696 and E-ISSN 2327-5804, the journal serves as a vital platform for emerging voices and established authors alike, showcasing a diverse array of literary forms, including poetry, prose, and critical essays. Published by the CHICAGO REVIEW, the journal stands as an influential publication in the field, particularly noted for its contributions to the understanding of literature's role in society. Despite being categorized in the fourth quartile (Q4) for 2023 in Literature and Literary Theory, its commitment to quality and innovation makes it a significant resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to deepen their engagement with literary studies. The journal has maintained a continuous presence from 2002 to 2022, promising a comprehensive archive of thought-provoking content for its readers.

ItinerArios-Revista de Literatura

Navigating the Rich Tapestry of Literature
Publisher: UNIV ESTADUAL PAULISTA-UNESPISSN: 0103-815XFrequency: 1 issue/year

ItinerArios-Revista de Literatura is a distinguished academic journal published by Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), located in the vibrant city of Araraquara, Brazil. With a commitment to exploring the depths of literary analysis and theory, this journal serves as a crucial platform for scholars, researchers, and students to disseminate their work in the field of literature. Though the journal does not currently offer open access, it boasts a comprehensive focus on various literary traditions, critical interpretations, and emerging trends within the literary landscape. The ISSN for the print edition is 0103-815X, ensuring its recognition in the academic community. By providing a valuable forum for innovative research and engaging discussions, ItinerArios plays an essential role in enriching the discourse in the realm of literary studies, appealing to professionals and enthusiasts alike who are eager to contribute to and engage with contemporary literary scholarship.