Delmarva Review, Volume 11

Welcome to the 11th annual Delmarva Review, a literary journal publishing exceptional poetry, fiction, and nonfiction in both print and digital editions. Our editors selected the work of 45 authors that stood out from thousands of submissions. Enclosed are 57 poems, 10 short stories, 11 nonfiction and four micro nonfiction selections. We also reviewed five recent books by regional writers. In all, the authors come from 19 states and two other countries.

A common theme emerged from this year’s writing: the discovery or realization of individuality, often during difficult times. Adversity leaves its impression on one’s identity; it shapes us. It can also be celebrated. Individuality and creativity are inseparable.

As a journal, our focus is on the voice and literary qualities of authors’ work to tell their stories. We are impressed by the courage and clarity of a writer to reveal skillfully a personal feeling or truth that will be remembered. They represent human challenges in a changing world. In most cases, the stories take on more than one meaning. In all cases, the voice is authentic.