Founded in 1999, and relaunched in its current form in 2001, island is an A5 biannual literary magazine providing 'a distinctive space for new writing inspired by nature, and/or exploring our place within the natural world.' Hand-bound, with a design approaching that of an artist’s book, it publishes poetry and prose poems, concrete poetry, essays and non-fiction fragments in themed issues, the centre section of which is set aside for collaborations between poets and artists/photographers. Although it is primarily a literary magazine, this visual and craft dimension has also attracted attention from a design, art, and artist-book-making audience. Unsolicited submissions are encouraged from authors anywhere in the world, with contributors encouraged to explore different formal approaches in reflecting on their relationship with landscape. Proposals for translations of foreign-language work, collaborations and special features are also welcomed. An American-themed issue is planned for spring 2005. The associated Essence Press imprint publishes poetry pamphlets and "poetry objects", often hand-bound, as well as poetry postcards. Circulation approximately 200 per issue and approximately 75-95 pages.