Each year, we put together a book of essays, interviews, and other writings by the people of Are.na. We ask for submissions around a given theme — past anthologies have been themed “document” and “pool,” for example — that take root in a channel. In that way, the writings are another manifestation of the kind of thinking and research that takes place on Are.na.

This year, we’ve landed on the theme “score” as in to secure an advantage; to gain points in a game; to keep record or account; a cut, notch, or groove; a group of twenty; a musical composition; a grudge. Submissions are now open. 

As always, this theme should be taken more as guidance than restriction — we’re interested in what “score” brings up for you. We also made this open channel to collect ideas, lines of thought, and potential directions (feel free to add to it). 

You might look to some of last year’s pieces for the theme of “pool’ as well: Learning to Float by Peter Johnson, Horses Don’t Stop by Genevieve Devine, and Pools for Conviviality by Extra Practice are now online. The book is mostly made up of essays and conversations, but we’ve also published fiction, poetry, recipes, and pieces that weave together text with imagery, or otherwise don’t fit into a conventional format.

Submissions close Monday, April 20, 2026 at 11:59pm EST. The Are.na Annual vol 8 will publish in December, and published authors will receive a $200 honorarium. 

Here’s the process for pitching: 

1. Choose or create a channel that you’d like to expand upon in a piece of writing. (If you don’t already have an Are.na account, you can sign up here: are.na/sign_up.)

2. Use the theme “score” to guide you in your selection. Score to secure an advantage; to gain points in a game; to keep record or account; a cut, notch, or groove; a group of twenty; a musical composition; a grudge.

3. Write a few paragraphs detailing what you’d like to write about. What’s the main idea and how does it relate to the theme? Why are you interested in writing about it? Why will others be interested to read it? What format do you envision it taking? Note: No particular writing experience is required, just a strong idea and willingness to collaborate / work with an editor. 

4. Fill out this form to send the paragraph and a link to your channel by April 20, 2026 and we’ll respond (to everyone) shortly thereafter. Feel free to share with anyone who may be interested!

Meg Miller is editorial director at Are.na.