Bellevue Literary Review

Bellevue Literary Review 10th Anniversary Issue cover

Bellevue Literary Review (BLR) is a notable literary magazine that focuses on fusing the worlds of medicine, health, and the arts. Founded in the year 2000, it is published by the Department of Medicine at New York University's Bellevue Hospital, one of the oldest public hospitals in the United States. The BLR stands out for its unique emphasis on narratives that explore the human condition through the lens of health and healing, illness, the body, and the mind.

History

The inception of the Bellevue Literary Review was inspired by the rich literary and medical heritage of Bellevue Hospital. The hospital has been a pioneer in medical education and public health, as well as the backdrop for numerous significant medical breakthroughs. Recognizing the profound stories emerging from the intersection of medicine and human experience, the founders of BLR sought to create a platform where such narratives could be shared and celebrated. Since its first publication, the BLR has grown in prominence and now attracts submissions from both established and emerging writers around the world.

Content and Themes

The Bellevue Literary Review publishes poetry, short stories, and essays that delve into the complexities of the human experience as viewed through the prism of health and illness. The magazine is committed to exploring the depth of emotion and the intricate narratives that health-related experiences can evoke. Themes often include patient stories, the challenges faced by healthcare professionals, ethical dilemmas in medicine, and the impact of illness on individuals and families. The BLR encourages submissions that provide insight into the human condition, promote empathy, and foster a deeper understanding of the diverse perspectives surrounding health and illness.

Impact and Recognition

Over the years, the Bellevue Literary Review has garnered acclaim for its contribution to the literary and medical communities. It has been praised for its role in promoting literature as a tool for empathy and understanding in the medical field. Many pieces published in the BLR have been recognized in notable anthologies, such as The Best American Essays, The Best American Short Stories, and The Pushcart Prize: Best of the Small Presses. The magazine's unique focus has also sparked discussions on the importance of narrative medicine, a field that views storytelling as a key component of patient care and medical practice.

Submission Process

The Bellevue Literary Review welcomes submissions from writers of all backgrounds, including those without medical training. Submissions are typically open for specific periods during the year, and the magazine has a blind review process to ensure fairness and quality. Writers are encouraged to submit works that reflect the magazine's themes of health, healing, illness, the body, and the mind.

Editorial Board

The editorial board of the Bellevue Literary Review is comprised of a diverse group of individuals, including writers, physicians, and scholars. This multidisciplinary team ensures that the content published in the magazine is both artistically compelling and medically insightful. The board's commitment to high-quality, thought-provoking content has been a key factor in the BLR's success and influence.

Conclusion

The Bellevue Literary Review occupies a unique niche at the intersection of medicine and the arts. Through its publication of poignant and insightful literary works, the BLR continues to illuminate the profound connections between health, illness, and the human experience. It serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling in understanding and navigating the complexities of life and health.