Researching the Topic
Writing a poetry manuscript can often seem daunting, particularly if it’s the first time you’re doing it. It’s important to take the time to research what you can about the process and make a plan before beginning the task. Start by compiling all the information you can find on the types of poems you want to write, what your goals are, and the structure you’d like your manuscript to take. Talk to other poets, read books and articles about poetry, and soak up as much knowledge as you can about the craft.
Organizing Your Poems
The next step is to organize your poems. This could mean deciding which poems you want to include in your poem manuscript, the order in which you want the poems to be placed, and what other elements you want to add (such as a dedication or acknowledgements page). Think about the flow of the manuscript and the themes that you want to explore in your poem collection. Consider how the various poems will overlap and compliment each other.
Formatting Your Manuscript
Once you have the structure of the manuscript set, you can begin formatting. If the manuscript is going to be printed, you will need to choose a paper size and font size, as well as spacing and margins. Make sure that all of your poems share the same formatting – this will help to create a cohesive look. If you’re submitting the manuscript electronically, you can simply format the poems in a word processor and save them as a PDF.
Expanding Your Collection
Once you have the basic structure of the manuscript in place, you can begin to expand your collection. Think about what other elements you can add to the manuscript, such as footnotes, comments, and background information. If you’ve written a lot of individual poems, you might want to consider creating sections within the manuscript – this will help create a more fluid flow.
Editing and Proofreading
Once you’ve finished compiling all the poems in your manuscript it’s time to go through and edit each one. Make sure that each poem is as polished as possible before submitting it – this will help to make sure that your poem collection is taken seriously. A good way to do this is to read each poem at least once out loud – this will help to catch any mistakes you may have overlooked. Additionally, you may want to get a second opinion from a friend or writing group before finalizing the manuscript.
Submitting Your Manuscript
The final step before submitting your manuscript is to come up with a cover letter. This should include information about the types of poems in your collection, as well as any other relevant information (such as previous publications). After that, you can submit the manuscript either through print submission, or electronically via various websites.
Honing Your Craft
Once you have your manuscript completed and submitted, the best thing to do is to get back to writing and honing your craft. Read other poets and continue to write in order to develop your own style and technique. There’s always something to learn in poetry, no matter what level you’re at.
Finding Inspiration
Inspiration can be found in the most unexpected of places – but it can be difficult to know where to look and how to use it in your own writings. Make sure to keep an open mind when looking for inspiration – it could be a line from a favorite book, a photo you’ve taken, or a conversation you’ve had with someone. Try to look for inspiration in new places and in different ways – this will help to keep your writing fresh and exciting.
Developing a Voice
Developing a unique voice is essential for a successful poem collection. Spend time exploring different techniques and ideas – try experimenting with different writing styles and speaking in different voices. Pay attention to the way you use words and the way you structure your poems – this can help to give your readers a better idea of who you are and what your work is all about.
Publicizing Your Collection
Once your manuscript has been completed, the next step is to think about publicizing your work. Share excerpts on social media, write blog posts, submit the poems to magazines and sites, and use any platform you can to get your work out there. Developing an audience is crucial for a poetry collection, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
Creating a Community
Creating a community is also a great way to publicize your work and to form relationships with other poets. Look for local writing groups, attend open mics and readings, and try to get involved in the larger poetry community. You’ll have the opportunity to share your work and to provide feedback on the work of others.
Entering Competitions and Awards
Competitions and awards can be a great way to get your work noticed and to gain recognition in the literary world. Research the various contests available and look for ones that are well-respected and have a history of discovering new talent. And if your work does end up winning, there’s always the chance for more publications and opportunities for growth.
Producing the Manuscript
Finally, once you’ve written and revised all of your poems, and you feel your manuscript is ready, it’s time to produce it. This can mean submitting it for publication, or self-publishing it if you’d prefer to take matters into your own hands. Regardless of the route you take, the final step is the same – getting your work out there for the world to enjoy.
