When Poetry Com Was Still Available
For many years, Poetry.com was a website where aspiring poets, mainly amateurs and hobbyists, could submit and share their work with a larger audience. From 1998 to early 2018, the website allowed poets to post their work online, receive comments and feedback from others, and even participate in various competitions and contests. During that time, Poetry.com also published numerous volumes of poetry anthologies, which revolved around various themes, ranging from love and loss to nature and the seasons.
Unfortunately, Poetry.com is no longer available. Nevertheless, it has left a lasting legacy, that many poets have used to further their own creative writing and artistry. The legacy of Poetry.com has been seen in a variety of ways, from the proliferation of other poetry-focused websites, to the emergence of slam poetry and rap lyrics, to the publication of numerous volumes of poetry compilations.
Where to Find Published Poetry from Poetry Com?
Many individuals looking for published poetry from Poetry.com may be surprised and disappointed to find that the website is no longer accessible. Nevertheless, there are still ways to access some of the printed volumes of poetry distributed by Poetry.com during its existence.
One of the first steps to locating published Poetry.com volumes is to begin an online search. By searching phrases such as “published Poetry.com” or “Poetry.com anthology,” one may be able to find listings of the various published poems put out by Poetry.com. Additionally, the online auction site, Ebay, may also be used to find the various volumes created during Poetry.com’s publishing tenure.
Finding Work from Poetry Com
Poetry.com also used to facilitate writers to post their work for public viewing and comment in the ‘Writers Cafe’ section of the website. However, since the website has been discontinued, many poets are concerned about the lost of the works previously posted in its Writer’s Cafe.
Fortunately, there is a way to recover the work from Poetry.com in its digital form. Through the power of search engines, some of the works that were on the Writers Cafe can be retrieved. By using the web domain Internet Archive, copies of the Poetry.come website can be recovered. By using phrases such as the “Poetry.com Writer’s Cafe” as the search query, some of the previously posted works might still be accessible.
Risks of Writing on Poetry Com
Although uploading works on poetry websites such as Poetry.com was once popular, many experienced writers and poets warn against uploading poetry on such sites. One of the main concerns related to the security and protection of work uploaded online. In the case of Poetry.com, the work posted on the website was not protected by copyright law, and so any works posted may be published by the website elsewhere without the knowledge or permission of the author.
In addition to copyright issues, some writers have also expressed concern about the quality of works posted on Poetry.com, as well as about criticisms and feedback given on the website. Given the website’s lack of a review process and guidelines for comments, the feedback from such sites can be varied and unpredictable.
Alternatives
In the wake of the closure of Poetry.com, many other similar websites have emerged as viable platforms for poets looking to share their work. Websites such as Poets.org and Poetry Society of America offer poets the possibility of submitting their work for review in accordance to certain guidelines, as well as allowing poets to comment on the works submitted by other poets. Such websites may also provide the possibility of having works submitted published in various print and online journals and magazines.
Furthermore, in the current online and mobile age, writing blogs and social media websites such as Twitter and Instagram provide platforms for individuals looking to showcase their creativity. On such websites, individuals may choose to self-publish their works, comment on and engage with other poets, and reach a much wider audience than before.
Making a Living from Poetry
Although Poetry.com was more tailored to amateur poets and hobbyists, there are potential opportunities for ambitious poets to make a living from their work. By submitting work to poetry contests, magazines, journals, and anthologies, one may be able to accrue sufficient funds to sustain their activities as a writer.
Many publishing companies also offer opportunities for writers, poets and authors to receive financial compensation for their published works in various magazines, journals, and other materials. Also, many universities and schools offer teaching and teaching assistant positions related to the subjects of literature and poetry, as well as other related activities.
Writing Groups and Organizations
There are a variety of groups that exist online, many of them free to join, which can offer aspiring poets the opportunity and support to develop their skills and gain insight from more experienced writers. Through such groups, poets can benefit from being part of a sharp and supportive community, engage in conversations, share feedback and advice, and challenge themselves to improve and develop as writers.
Furthermore, many local organizations and clubs may exist in the physical realm, where poets may find supportive communities with whom to share their work, gain feedback, and engage in constructive dialogue. Such groups may also form a great source of motivation and inspiration.
Writing Resources
For poets looking to expand their skill, there are various online tools and writing resources available. Many websites and online resources provide materials relating to the various skills involved in writing poetry and other forms of literature. These resources may vary from audio and video resources, podcasts, podcasts and courses, to worksheets and e-books, many of them free of charge and easily accessible.
Furthermore, the Internet provides numerous sources of resources, from the many blog entries written by professionals and teaching materials from universities and colleges, to conferences, seminars, and workshops intended to help upcoming poets refine their craft.
Expanding One’s Reach
For poets that are already content with their skill, but looking to reach a larger audience, there are a variety of ways to share their work to a wider range of individuals. Social media websites such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook are great venues for poets to share their work, both with the general public and with other poets, even with providing the possibility of gaining financial compensation.
In addition to online platforms, many poets may find success in printing and distributing their works in physical copies, such as zines and magazines, or producing performance poetry in the form of rap, slams and other events. With proper planning and organisation, one could even consider releasing an audio or video album of one’s works.
Befriending Other Poets
Most importantly, one of the best and most effective ways to gain recognition and reach an audience with one’s work is by actively engaging in the community and befriending other poets. By establishing strong connections and contacts in the scene, poets may be able to access new opportunities and advice related to their work.
Through attending conferences, seminars, live events, workshops, and other activities, one has to the chance to not only share one’s work with a variety of audiences, but to associate and interact with other poets of similar aspirations. Furthermore, many publishing companies and ventures are looking for writers in attendance of such activities, giving the chance for poets to further receive compensation for their work.
Making Connections with Other Writers
Networking and making connections with other writers is also a great way to build a professional portfolio and strengthen one’s reputation. Many online groups, organizations, and clubs (many of them free) can offer poets the chance to network with others, build strong and lasting relationships, and gain access to exploit various opportunities and assistance.
Another helpful strategy involves joining, as well as becoming a member of, various online writing communities. Here poets can post poems, receive feedback and advice, collaborate on works in progress, and even learn new skills. Furthermore, by joining speciality writing groups, one may be able to access more professional resources and advantages.
