Writing Platforms
Writing platforms are a great way to start sharing your poetry with the world. There are various websites and apps that make it easy to get started, as well as provide resources to help you develop as a poet. Popular writing platforms include blogging sites like WordPress and Medium, online poetry communities like PoetrySoup and WritersCafe, and publishing apps like Wattpad and Figment.
These platforms often have experts who can give you advice, suggest modifications to your work, or provide feedback on the effectiveness of your poem. Additionally, depending on the platform you choose, you may be able to connect with other writers and poets. This can help to boost motivation and get your work out there.
Another advantage of using a writing platform is that it can give you a sense of accountability. When you share your writing with a wider audience, it can be more difficult to procrastinate or abandon a poem. This can help you to hone your craft and become a better poet.
Social Media Platforms
Social media can be another great option for sharing your work. Not only is it likely that you already have connections who would be interested in your poetry, but you can also use hashtags to reach a larger audience. Popular social media platforms include sites like Twitter and Instagram, and apps like TikTok.
For example, if you are writing a poem about self-love you could use the hashtag #selflove. People interested in this topic can use this hashtag to search for content related to the subject and may come across your poem. This can be a great way to reach a new audience and connect with other poets.
When using social media to share your poetry, you may be more likely to get constructive criticism. While this can be beneficial in some cases, it is important to remember to take care of yourself and don’t be affected by every comment. Only you can determine when your poem is complete.
Publishing Services
If you are interested in publishing your work, there are various services that can help. Sites like Author’s Republic, Smashwords, and Kindle Direct Publishing all offer publishing options suitable for independent authors. These may allow you to format, print, and distribute your poetry, giving you control over the appearance and availability of your work.
These services can also provide analytics of your book’s performance. This may help you to understand your audience and where to focus your marketing efforts. Additionally, depending on the platform you choose, there may be opportunities for awards and recognition for your work.
Sharing Locally
It can be a great feeling to share your work with people who are close to you too. You could print copies of your poetry, or find reading events in your community that allow you to share your work publicly.
Sharing your work with local groups and individuals can be a great way to get feedback on your poems and start conversations around poetry. You can also go to events such as open mics or slams to get inspiration and motivation to write. Getting involved with the local poetry scene may also give you access to resources or opportunities available in your area.
Online Communities
Another option for getting your work out there is joining an online poetry community. These platforms provide resources to help you improve your craft and provide a space to discuss and share your writing.
These online communities can be an excellent way to get feedback from other poets. Being part of a poetry community can also give you a sense of belonging and acceptance for your work. Additionally, some online poetry communities have forums to post your writing, get ratings from other poets, and have discussions around specific topics.
Printing Your Work
Printing your poetry can give you a great sense of satisfaction. Your work can take physical form and become part of your book collection. You can also use print options to share your poetry with specific people. Think of gifting your poems to a family member or friend, or having your work on display in an art gallery. This can lead to tangible connections with people and can be validating for your work.
Printing your work is also an easy way to get your poems noticed by publishers. Leafleting at events or giving copies of your work to local bookstores and libraries are two great options that can help you to be picked up by literary fans.
Self-Publishing
If you don’t want to go through a publisher, you can also self-publish your work. Authors who self-publish have more control over the circulation of their work, as well as its design and format. This can be a great option for poets who are just starting out and want to make a name for themselves.
With self-publishing, you are able to make decisions about which online stores to distribute your work, as well as the genres it falls into. You can also pick how you want to price your work, how it appears in the shops, and how you want it to be reviewed. This can be a great option to get your work out there with more control.
Publishing Journals/Magazines
One of the oldest and most established methods of getting your work out there is submitting poetry to literary journals or magazines. These publications often have literary agents and curators who will assess the quality of your work. This can be a great way to receive feedback and guidance on how to develop your poems.
These publications often have a submission process, so it is important to make sure you spend time understanding their requirements before submitting your work. Additionally, many publications have themes that guide their choices for each issue. So even if your work isn’t accepted for a particular issue, you may be able to craft a piece that works for the next issue.
Networking
Networking can be another way to share your work and get it out there. This can involve joining poetry events in your area or making connections through online groups. You could also use your own social media accounts or website to promote and talk about your work. This can help to build interest and bring more people to your work.
Additionally, you could collaborate with other poets and creators. This may involve helping one another promote your work, attending events together, or even co-writing. Half of the battle with getting your work out there is connecting with other people, and networking is a great way to do this.
Auditions and Competitions
Auditions and competitions can be another great way to share your work. You can look for opportunities in your local area, as well as for online events and festivals.
When entering any competition, it is important to read the rules and requirements so that you know what is expected of you. Additionally, you can use this as a chance to get feedback from the organisers and assess how to improve your poems before submitting them for another occasion.
Competitions and auditions can also provide opportunities to network and connect with people in your local area or wider literary scene. Additionally, if you are chosen to perform at an event or ceremony, or even win an award, it can be a great boost to your confidence and help to get your work out there.
