​Out of the Quiet: Queer Lives in Irish Writing — Update

Thank you for your submission and for the care and courage behind it.

We didn’t receive enough pieces this round to shape the anthology as it deserves. The project continues, with publication planned for 2027. Submissions will reopen in September; we’ll email the call-out and updated guidelines then. Your current submission will be kept securely on file and considered with the next round.

What we’re building
Out of the Quiet is an anthology of short fiction and poetry by Irish gay men aged 55+. It’s a living record — voices bearing witness to lives often kept out of sight yet central to Ireland’s story.

What to send in September

• Short stories: 500–2,000 words

• Poetry: up to two poems, max 30 lines each

• Original, unpublished work by the contributor

• Anonymous judging; publication will conclude with a public reading at the Carnegie Arts Centre

• Themes may include ageing, belonging, loss, joy, family, desire, resilience, humour, and love — truthfulness and voice matter most.

Why this matters
Much of our community’s courage, friendship, humour, and endurance went unrecorded. This anthology is one way to honour that legacy before memory fades.

Next steps

• We’ll share the September call and guidelines by email.

• You’re welcome to revise your piece or draft something new.

• Please spread the word so we can reach every voice that should be heard.

Guidelines and updates: kenmareartsfestival.com/out-of-the-quiet

Thank you for trusting us with your work. We look forward to reading what you’ll write next and to bringing this book into the world in 2027.