Where to Submit Your Poetry
Poetry is one of the oldest and most widely enjoyed art forms in the world. From ancient epic verses to modern spoken-word performances, it’s fair to say that poetry is here to stay.
For poets wanting to publish their work or gain some recognition from a wider audience, submitting their poetry can be essential. Yet, it can be a daunting process even for experienced poets.
So, where can you submit your poetry? Here, we’ll look at some of the options available and what you should consider when deciding on the right platform for you.
Books
Publishing a book of poems is a fantastic way to further your writing career. Aspiring authors can begin by submitting their work to literary agents or even independent publishers. In many cases, agents will request a full book proposal, which can include manuscripts and biographical information. However, it can take several months before they respond with a decision.
Alternatively, those hoping to forego the traditional publishing process can opt to self-publish their work. Self-publishing can allow authors to retain control of their work and receive royalties from every sale. Though it comes with a high cost, self-publishing can also be a rewarding experience for authors.
Websites and Contests
Websites are a great way for authors to share their work and find others in the poetry community. Poetry exchange websites can be a great place to post your work and get feedback from other users. For example, PoetryFoundation.org, the world’s largest site for poets, hosts a variety of forums, workshops and special contests. Aspiring poets can join the community to gain some visibility and eventually, hopefully, gain readers.
Poetry contests are a great way to put your work to the test. Reputable contests allow poets to submit their pieces and win recognition and, in some cases, cash rewards. Taking part in a contest can be an excellent way to gain publicity and reach a wider audience. However, do your research before submitting, as some contests can result in a hefty reading fee.
Journals and Magazines
Submitting your poetry to a journal or magazine can be a great way to spread your work among different readerships. Usually, authors are encouraged to read some of the past publications to see if their writing style fits the style of the journal. It’s also essential to read over the guidelines thoroughly and make sure you follow them in detail when submitting your poem(s).
Always make sure to send out your work in a timely manner. Journals may close their submissions for each issue and have strict deadlines for poets to abide by. Submitting your work in advance can give you an edge over the competition and increase your chances of having your work featured in a reputable publication.
Poetry Submitted Orally
Reading and performing your poetry in public can be a great way to get your work out there. Whether it’s a studio audience or an open mic night, reciting your work aloud can be a wonderful way to connect with potential fans. It can also be one of the best ways to get creative feedback and get a sense of how the audience reacts to your words.
Joining local poetry clubs or events can be a great way to gain some recognition. You can find plenty ofopportunities online or through word-of-mouth. Events such as poetry slams, spoken-word workshops, and even radio hosts can be wonderful ways to offer your work to a larger audience.
Online Platforms
In this digital age, there are plenty of online platforms for aspiring poets. Prevalent websites such as Poets.org or Twitter feature an active community of poets and authors who can provide helpful advice and guidance. Additionally, posting your poetry on social media can help you reach a wider audience and gain valuable feedback.
Blogs and website portals, such as WordPress and Squarespace, offer unique customizations for poets to express themselves. These sites host plenty of independent authors, who host free poetry volumes or post their streams of thoughts throughout the day. For content creators with an online presence, many networks feature spaces that cater to established and upcoming poets.
Finding Your Audience
Ultimately, no matter your route towards publication, consider your intended audience and how they would react to your work. Make sure that you are genuine in self-promoting your work, so the right people will listen.
Networking with bloggers, curators, and other writers can be a huge help. Their connections may help you come up with fresh ideas and introduce you to new markets suited to your writing style. If a few of them love your work, they can be valuable advisors if and when you decide to take your poems to the world.
Publications and Insertions
A great way to expand your reach is to look for publishers or websites that republish work from authors. These outlets can promote your work and offer you free publicity. They can be incredibly helpful for authors seeking “bigger-scale” attention from competent readers outside their community.
Newspapers and literary magazines are also great options for authors seeking professional recognition for their work. Scholars tend to follow these sources for the latest articles and reviews, giving you a chance to have your work evaluated by the right people. However, inquire about the guidelines and rules before submitting to make sure your work meets the standards of the publication.
Submitting Your Poetry
When submitting your poems, be sure to take the time to read and follow the guidelines. It’s important to make sure your work meets the specific requirements of the submission. This may include formatting, page limits, themes, and other expectations. Not following these rules can be a red flag and result in automatic rejection of your work.
Be sure to give the poem time for edits and revising. Hone your work until you are confident it can stand on its own. Don’t rush the process and give yourself time to look over your work from start to finish.
Following these considerations should help make your decision on where to submit your poems easier. Gathering knowledge on outlets and submission styles will give you a better chance to showcase your work and get the recognition you deserve.
Researching and Evaluating
When deciding where to submit your work, make sure to look up each publication’s reviews, ratings, and standards. Established websites, such as Poets and Writers, offer valuable insights into the world of poetry. Most importantly, researching the target market and audience can be key to finding the right publication. If it meets your standards, consider if the material will be of interest to the viewers.
Submitting a poem can take a lot of effort. Set aside plenty of time to prepare your work and send it out to the right outlet. Make sure to read all the requirements, even if the process is tedious. Not following the right protocol can lead to rejection or disqualification.
Writing a great poem is the first step. But finding the right audience for your work is essential. Consider each platform and audience before deciding which one is the best fit for your poem.
Research Your Competitors
Doing background research on your competitors can be a great way to get ahead and develop your craft. Knowing what type of material has been accepted or rejected can give you an edge when preparing your poem. Often, taking a look at the other works also can be influential in honing your craft and developing your own writing style.
Moreover, reading and understanding what is popular in the genre can inspire your work. Knowing what pieces were successful and why they stood out can be an invaluable tool when submitting your work.
Stay awake to the ever-evolving world of poetry and you may find your work appreciated in places you hadn’t expected. So, don’t be afraid to diversify your submissions and get creative when promoting your poetry.
Deciding Where to Publish
Publishing your poetry is one of the exciting and challenging tasks of being an author. With countless opportunities available and multiple paths to choose from, some may find the process overwhelming. But with research and the right measures in mind, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect platform for your work.
Your manuscript is only as strong as the outlet that accepts it. Take the time to choose the right platform and get to know the publication’s standards. Doing your due diligence may be tedious, but if your goal is to be published and noticed, it’s worth the extra effort.
Armed with the appropriate knowledge, publishing your poetry will be a swift and efficient process. Knowing you have followed all the rules, readers should be able to appreciate your work for exactly what it is.
