About Us

The Fiddlehead was first established in 1945. What began as a mimeographed 8-page journal stapled together by Alfred Bailey is now a veritable institution of literary culture in Canada. For over 70 years, The Fiddlehead has continually upheld its mandate to publish accomplished poetry, short fiction, and Canadian literature reviews; to discover and promote new writing talent; to represent the Atlantic region's lively cultural and literary diversity; and to place the best of new and established Canadian writing in an international context. 

We began, and we remain, a regional magazine with a national and international reputation. Although we appreciate diversity and innovation in writing, the work we publish is also consistent in quality. We are committed to exposing readers to the latest work produced by reputable and emerging authors. To quote John Metcalf, “The Fiddlehead was, and is, an essential part of Canada’s literary life. Its editors have always taken seriously their responsibility to seek out and encourage new young writers and give them a hearing in the company of their elders.” 

The Fiddlehead occasionally swaps its mailing list with other literary organizations. Please contact us if you don't want us to include your information on that list.