Identifying Your Poem
Poetry is one of the oldest forms of creative expression and can be used to express a range of emotions and ideas. With the right poem, it is possible to get your work published in magazines, newspapers, and book collections. However, before you consider getting your poetry published, it is important to identify the poem’s focus. What themes are explored in the poem, what subjects are covered and which literary techniques are used? Taking the time to analyse your poem before submitting it for publishing is vital.
Identifying Your Audience
When choosing a publishing source for your poetry, it is important to consider the kind of audience you want to reach. Different magazines and literary journals have their own specific audiences and it is important to select the publication that will best fit the poem’s style and theme. Additionally, depending on the publication, you may also need to tailor the poem’s length and content to match the magazine’s audience.
Research Potential Publications
Once you know the kind of audience you wish to reach, it is then time to start researching poetic publication outlets. Start by looking at the websites and journals of the kind of publications you want to submit to. Most publications have an ‘About’ page which outlines their editorial style and content needs. Additionally, it can help to search for reviews or opinion pieces where people discuss their experience of submitting and having their work published.
Submission Requirements
The next step is to begin looking at the specific publication’s submission requirements. Many publications have an online submission portal and have detailed instructions about what you need to include if you are submitting via post. Make sure you read and understand all of the requirements prior to submitting your poem.
Edit and Submit Poem
Before submitting, you should edit and proofread your poem until you are sure that it is your best work. Make sure you read and re-read the poem until you have completely perfected it. When you are ready, carefully package up your poem and follow the publication’s submission and delivery requirements.
Showcase Your Work
Once your poem has been published, you should make sure you share it with your family and friends, as well as showcasing the publication in which it was featured. Don’t forget to use any interviews and features to help promote your work and build up your understanding of the literary world.
Keeping Up-to-date
Finally, if you want to keep up-to-date with poetic publications, then you should look to follow the various poets and outlets that you are interested in. This will keep you informed about any upcoming submission opportunities, and it will provide invaluable support and understanding of the industry.
Explore Poetry Journals
Poetry journals are a great way to find potential publications. There are a range of journals and e-zines that focus entirely on publishing poetic works. Some are free while others cost a small fee. However, they all provide a platform to share poetry and help writers find a publisher.
Submit to Open Submissions
Many publications provide open submissions, meaning that writers can send in their work and hope to be selected for the publication. Many literary magazines conduct open submissions and accept various kinds of submissions, allowing writers to have a chance of getting their work published.
Polish Your Publication Life Cycle
Publishing a poem, is just the start of the publication life cycle. You also need to think about how to promote your work, how to submit to other publications and how to tailor your work to best fit the audience you are aiming for. All these steps are vital in helping your poem get published.
Study Copyright Guidelines
When sending any kind of written piece for publication, make sure to familiarise yourself with the copyright guidelines. These guidelines outline the kind of permission you will need to grant a publication before they can publish your work.
Consider Learning Platforms
Learning platforms can be a great way to get more information and assistance when submitting your work for publication. Platforms such as Udemy offer a range of courses designed to help writers with the publication process. From learning more about copyright laws to understanding the publishing industry, these courses can help you understand what needs to be done to get your poem published.
