Writing poetry and making a career out of it is a difficult path. The pay is often unrewarding and it’s often difficult to make a living out of it. However, with dedication and a strong willingness to succeed, it’s still possible to make money writing poetry.
When it comes to financial gain, you have to accept that most poets and writers don’t achieve this. Poetry isn’t a form of expression that is known for its ability to pay royalties, and many writers must rely on other means of making money. However, there are some ways to make money from writing poetry.
Publication Royalties
The most obvious way to make money from writing poetry is to have your work published in some way, either in print or online. Some poets have collections of their work published and may receive royalties on these sales. For example, if a poet’s work is published in a book by a publisher, then some money may be earned through these sales. Publishers may also award advances on collections of poetry, so even if there are no sales, the poet may earn a small payment.
Poets can also make a living by publishing their work in magazines and journals. A poet may be paid in exchange for publishing the right to a piece, but the money received is often very small. Getting published in any journal or magazine is also very competitive, so this might not be an avenue for all writers.
Performance Royalties
If a poet’s work is performed in a theatre or similar venue, then they may be eligible to receive what’s known as performance royalties. Poets will usually receive these royalties from their publisher or from the theatre or performers in question. Again, these payments can be very small and do not usually accrue to the poet unless the performance is regularly staged or televised.
Some poets also make money from performing their work live. This can be at spoken word venues, nightclubs and concerts. Here, the poet is paid by the venue or promoter to perform their pieces. This can be a good source of income, as poets can often make a reasonable rate per performance, depending on the size of the crowd and their own status as an artist.
Writing Competitions and Grants
Many poets make money through writing competitions, grants and awards. These provide a source of income for poets and can also be a great way to gain recognition for one’s work. Many competitions and awards are open to new writers, and some may provide considerable sums of money for winning entries.
In addition, there are many organizations and institutions that offer grants and other forms of funding for poets. These are usually targeted at specific topics and themes, and poets must meet certain criteria in order to be eligible. Grants can provide poets with the extra boost of income needed to pursue their writing or other creative endeavors.
Teaching
Teaching poetry is another way for poets to make money. Poets can teach classes and workshops in schools, community centres and further education colleges, and may receive a good rate of pay for doing so. This method is ideal for poets who have a good knowledge of the subject and a good understanding of the craft. Poets may also be able to find writing-related roles in universities and other institutions, such as in the role of a tutor or adviser.
Some poets choose to run their own classes, either in person or online. These can be tailored to suit the poet’s own interests and topics, and can be an effective way to make additional money while also sharing one’s knowledge and experience with others.
Freelance Writing
Many poets make money through freelance writing. This can involve writing about poetry and related topics for blogs and magazines, or being hired by companies and individuals to write for them. Freelance writing can be a good source of income for poets, and it can also provide an opportunity to develop one’s writing style and creativity.
Freelance writers can also write copy and other content for companies and organizations, or develop their own products and services. There are many different routes that a poet can take when it comes to freelance writing, and it can be a great way to start making money while writing poetry.
Internet Marketing
Finally, some poets make money through internet marketing. This involves using the internet to promote and advertise one’s poetry, and can involve setting up websites, blogs and social media profiles. Poets may also use internet marketing to sell their work, either in the form of books or as downloadable content.
Internet marketing is a great way to reach a potential audience and market one’s poetry. It can also bring in additional revenue, especially if the poet has a strong online presence. Poets may also consider creating their own online writing courses and selling them to a wider audience.
Self Publishing
Self-publishing is another way for poets to make money. Here, a poet will create, design and publish their own books or collections of poetry. This method provides the poet with greater control and ownership of their work, and can be a great way to build a readership and earn additional income.
Self-publishing has both pros and cons and it can take some time and effort to get it right. However, if done well, it can open up new avenues for poets, both in terms of income and creative freedom.
Grants
There are many organizations and institutions that offer grants and scholarships for poets. These may be open to new and established poets and can provide useful financial support for those who wish to write and publish their work. In addition, some grants may offer additional benefits, such as mentoring and advice.
Grants can be an invaluable resource for poets who are looking to make a living from their work. It is important to research thoroughly before applying for any grants, as some may require additional criteria or restrictions.
Events
Organizing poetry events is another way to make money as a poet. Events can include readings, performances, workshops and other activities, and they can be a great way to build a fan base and raise awareness of one’s work. This can also open up opportunities to collaborate with other artists and organizations, as well as giving a boost to income.
Organizing events requires talent, time and effort. However, it can be a great way for poets to make money and to build connections with the broader poetry community.
Lecturing and Tutoring
Poets may also make money through lecturing and tutoring. This involves delivering lectures and courses at universities, colleges, and other educational establishments. This can be a good way to make money and to gain recognition, as well as sharing knowledge and experience with others.
Tutoring can also be a great way to make money and it often involves less time and effort than lecturing. Poets may be hired to tutor in schools, universities and other settings.
Social Media
Using social media is another way that poets can make money. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram and Facebook can be used to promote one’s work, network with other poets and build an audience. Social media can also be used to advertise services, such as tutoring or online writing courses.
Poets may also be able to make money from sponsored posts or advertising on social media. This requires a large and engaged audience and can be a good way to earn additional income.
