Are you an aspiring poet with an extensive collection of poems and a dream of publishing your work? While it may seem complicated to become a published poet, it’s certainly not impossible.
Here at The Unapologetic Voice House, we aspire to help every unspoken voice be seen, heard, and witnessed, from short stories to poetry.
In this article, we’ll teach you how to get your poetry published, and even provide you with tips for where you should submit your poetry for publication.
How to Get Poetry Published: How Should You Prepare Your Poem for Publication?
Prepare Your Poem
Once you finish writing your poem, what’s next? Chances are, it won’t be quite ready for publication. To increase your chances of getting your poetry published, you may consider doing a few things first.
First and foremost, proofread your poem for any spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors. Your poem may be amazing, but if an editor or publisher sees any typos, it’s more likely to be rejected.
Re-read each line with fresh eyes to remove cliché, hyperbole, extended similes, and saturated adjectives. With poetry, every word counts, and precision is everything.
If catching mistakes isn’t your forte, you can ask your family or friends to proofread your work, or you can even hire a professional proofreader or copy editor.
Choose a Title
First impressions are everything, especially when it comes to poetry. The perfect (or unperfect) title can say a lot about your poem, which is why it’s essential to pick a title that’s gripping and compelling. One that will grab the reader’s attention.
Choose one that not only represents your poem as a whole but also tell your readers about what your poem is about. Resist ones that are weighty or portentous.
Whatever you do, you should never leave your title blank. If you’re unsure of what to call your poem, you can name it “Untitled” or use the beginning sentence only.
Read the Submission Guidelines
Whether you submit your poem to a literary magazine or traditional publishing house, you should always read the submission guidelines. While they may be intimidating, it doesn’t mean they’re not necessary.
Before you hit the submit button, you should read the guidelines very carefully and follow them to a T. If the submission guidelines require a PDF version of your poem, that’s precisely what you should submit.
Add a Cover Letter
When you submit your poem, most literary magazines and publishing houses will require a brief cover letter. This letter explains who you are, what your poem is about, and why they should accept your work.
A cover letter should be short, sweet, and straight to the point. It should only be four or five sentences long. You should address it to either the name of the publication or the editor if their name is listed online.
How to Get Poetry Published: Where Should You Submit Your Poem for Publication?
Post Your Poem Online
As the quickest option on this list, some poets choose to create a blog and publish their poetry online. With a wide range of free platforms available, you can publish your poem for the world to see in just a few minutes.
While this option is easy, it’s also a lot harder to earn money since you’ll be giving your content away for free. However, if you’re looking to share your work and connect with readers, this may be the best choice for you.
Submit Your Poem to Literary Journals
The most common method of publishing a poem is by submitting it to a literary journal or magazine. This option may not be the most lucrative, but it will help your work get in front of a broader audience.
Before you submit your poem to any literary journal, make a list of four or five publications you think would be a good fit for your work. You should also keep track of the poems you submit, which literary journals you sent them to, and the date of submission.
Send Your Poetry to Publishing Houses
If you have an extensive collection of poems, you may want to consider publishing an anthology with a publisher. Although a larger publishing house may require you to have an agent, you can always do the work yourself by connecting with readers via a blog or social media.
Similar to a literary magazine, it’s crucial to read and follow the submission guidelines very carefully. You’ll also want to research the publisher to make sure they’re the best fit for you and your work.
Publish Your Poetry with Us
Want to learn how to get your poetry published? As an independent publishing house, The Unapologetic Voice House offers a blend of traditional and self-publishing services, as well as developmental editing and proofreading services to provide you with flexibility.
To learn how we can help you get your poetry published, submit a query letter today!