A Note
Welcome to our Substack
The BitterSweet Review started as a reading group during the pandemic; we shared work amongst a small group and met on Zoom to discuss the writing, offering feedback and criticism.
Since then, we have published two issues of our magazine — the eponymous BitterSweet Review — themed around physicality and humour; launched a platform of occasional reviews; and started a series of reading events in East London. We are about to begin a series of irregular writing workshops.
Welcome to our latest venture: a Substack. As well as updates on our various projects, we will be publishing reviews from a variety of contributors (and sharing our archive of criticism, previously published to Instagram and our newsletter).* Expect reflections upon and responses to queer literature (and film, and exhibitions), including new releases and obscure classics. For subscribers, we will share longer essays and exclusive extracts from our magazine — including the upcoming third issue, which explores the theme of queer futurity.
*If you’d like to write for us, DM us on Instagram or send a message on here.
The BitterSweet Review is a publishing platform dedicated to the advancement of queer literature and visual culture. Initiated in London by a group of international writers, artists and scholars, it was born out of a desire to build community in times of hardship. Its activities include a regular magazine, artists limited editions and writing workshops.
The BitterSweet Review recognises that the literary world is too often promotes a high-brow, elite and monolithic culture which marginalises queer makers and ideas.
The BitterSweet Review wants to change that. We want to empower a young generation of queer artists and writers to make work that matters to them. We want to engage in meaningful, cross-generational conversations with our peers, regardless of backgrounds and qualifications.
— the editors (Kole Fulmine and Louis Shankar)