Publications and Anthologies
Writers of all skill levels should consider submitting their poems to an anthology, magazine or journal. It is one of the best ways to make money selling poetry as you will be paid a flat fee by the publisher for every poem you wish to publish. If a larger publication takes your poem, you could even make more than one fee. To make sure that you get the highest payout for your work, it is important to research the market to get a better understanding of what the prices are for various types of poetry. Do not be afraid to submit your poem to several different outlets, in order to maximize your chances of getting paid.
Poetry Competitions
One of the most popular ways to make money from poetry is to enter a poetry competition. It is also one of the most competitive areas of the poetry industry, so you must make sure that you prepare your submission in the best possible way. It is worth researching typical poetry competition guidelines and entry requirements, to make sure that you submit work which fits the criteria. As poetry competitions are often run through a prize, the rewards can vary from competition to competition. It is worth applying for as many relevant competitions as possible, in order to increase your chances of finding the right one for you.
Online Publications
The internet has opened up many possibilities for writers. These days, it is much easier for poets to find a platform to showcase their work, as well as make money from it. By using different platforms such as WordPress and Medium, poets can self-publish and even offer their work to be read for a fee. It is possible to set up a blog or website to showcase your work and it could be a great way to make a bit of extra money on the side. Additionally, many online publications are always looking for content and welcome submissions of poetry.
Third-Party Platforms
You can also submit your poem to a third-party platform such as Poetry.com, Writer’s Digest and Scripted, which can give you the opportunity to make money from your efforts. Many third-party platforms have a wide-range of contests, with attractive cash prizes and honorariums. This is a great option for those who are looking for monetary reward with the freedom of retaining ownership of their work.
Scholarships and Grants
Many educational institutions and non-profits now offer grants, fellowships and scholarships for poets. These could be a great opportunity for emerging poets to get the chance to get their work noticed and make some money. Finding suitable opportunities may take some effort, however, the investment will pay for itself in the long run.
Publishing A Collection
A great way to make money from poetry is to compile and publish a collection of your work as an eBook or physical book. This is a great way to showcase your abilities as a poet and get paid for the work you have created. It could also be a great way to get the attention of publishers and literary agents. You should make sure to consider the various copyright and other legal aspects of publishing a book of poems.
Marketing
Poets should also consider marketing their work in order to earn more money from their work. This could be done through social media, which is a great way to get the word out about your work. Many poets choose to create a website or blog to showcase their work, which can help to introduce their work to a broader audience. Additionally, it is possible to advertise for open mic opportunities and other events to get your work noticed.
Live Performances
Another way to unleash the power of your words and make money from poetry is through live performances. There are lots of opportunities to perform your work live in front of an audience, from open mics to larger festivals and events. Being open to performing your work in front of a crowd can be daunting at first, but being able to connect with your audience gives your work an added dimension and could be incredibly rewarding. It may also provide opportunities to network and make more money in the future.
Submitting Your Work to Local Magazines and Newspapers
It is also possible to make money from poetry by submitting your work to local magazines and newspapers. Although most will not pay a lot, it is still a great way to get your work noticed. You may also find it to be an exciting venture as it allows you to make connections and get involved with the local communities.
Selling Your Poetry Online
In today’s world, it is possible to make money by selling your poetry online. Many sites such as Etsy offer an option to sell your poetry, in the form of printable art, greeting cards, and other tangible items. Additionally, many poets use platforms such as YouTube to make money by posting videos of their work online.
Royalty Payments
For poets who have already published their work, there are ways to make money on an ongoing basis. Many poets seek out royalty payments for the use of their work, such as in films, television programmes and commercials. In some cases, it is possible to earn money through the use of your work in a project or product. Additionally, it is important to understand copyright regulations as this may help you to protect your work and make sure that you are fairly paid for your work.
