Mastering Poetry Submission: Tips and Tricks for Success

When it comes to poetry submission, getting your work into literary journals can be both exciting and challenging. Poetry submission is all about sharing your poems with the world and hoping they find a place in a journal or magazine. It’s a process that takes patience and persistence, but with the right tips, you can improve your chances of success.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some simple and effective strategies to make your poetry submission process smoother. Whether you’re new to poetry or looking to refine your approach, these tips will help you navigate the world of poetry submissions with confidence.

Understanding Poetry Submission Basics

Poetry submission is the process of sending your poems to literary journals and magazines. These publications look for poems to feature in their issues. You usually send your poems through email or a submission platform on their website. Each journal or magazine has its own rules, which are called “submission guidelines.”

These guidelines tell you how to format your poems, how many poems to submit, and where to send them. Some journals only accept poems through their online systems, while others might prefer email or even postal mail. Always read these guidelines carefully to make sure your submission is accepted.

How to Prepare Your Poem for Submission

Before you send your poem out, it’s important to make sure it’s ready. Start by revising your poem to make sure it’s the best it can be. Check for spelling and grammar mistakes. Make sure your poem follows the style and format the journal or magazine prefers.

Here are some steps to prepare your poem for poetry submission:

1. Revise and Edit: Go through your poem several times to catch any mistakes or awkward phrases.
2. Format Correctly: Follow the formatting rules in the submission guidelines. This usually includes font size, line spacing, and margins.
3. Write a Cover Letter: Some journals ask for a cover letter. This is a short letter that introduces yourself and your poem. Mention any previous publications or achievements, but keep it brief.

Finding the Right Journals for Poetry Submission

Not every journal or magazine will be the right fit for your poem. It’s important to research where you want to send your work. Look for journals that publish poems similar to yours. You can find this information on their websites or by reading past issues.

Here’s how to find the right journals for poetry submission:

1. Read the Journal: Look at a few past issues to see if your poems would fit in.
2. Check Their Guidelines: Make sure your poem matches their submission guidelines.
3. Consider Their Audience: Think about who reads the journal and if they would enjoy your poem.

Common Mistakes in Poetry Submission

When submitting poetry, it’s easy to make mistakes. These mistakes can hurt your chances of getting published. Here are some common errors to avoid:

1. Ignoring Guidelines: Not following the submission guidelines can lead to automatic rejection.
2. Submitting Too Many Poems: If the journal asks for only three poems, don’t send ten.
3. Poor Formatting: Not following the correct format can make your poem look unprofessional.
4. Spelling and Grammar Mistakes: Even small errors can make a bad impression.

How to Write a Cover Letter for Poetry Submission

A cover letter is a short introduction that goes along with your poetry submission. It’s your chance to briefly introduce yourself and explain why you’re submitting to that particular journal. Keep your cover letter simple and to the point.

Here’s what to include in your cover letter:

1. Introduction: Start with a polite greeting and briefly introduce yourself.
2. Mention the Poems: State the titles of the poems you are submitting.
3. Include Any Relevant Information: If you have previous publications or awards, mention them briefly.
4. Thank the Editor: End with a thank you for considering your work.

The Best Time to Submit Your Poetry

The timing of your poetry submission can impact your chances of getting published. Some journals have specific reading periods or deadlines, while others accept submissions year-round.

Here’s how to time your submissions:

1. Check Submission Deadlines: Many journals have deadlines for each issue. Make sure to submit before the deadline.
2. Consider the Reading Period: Some journals have busy reading periods. Submitting early might give your poem a better chance of being seen.
3. Submit During Open Periods: If a journal accepts submissions year-round, choose a time that works best for you.

How to Track Your Poetry Submissions

Keeping track of where and when you submit your poems is important. It helps you remember which journals have your work and if you’ve received any responses.

Here’s how to track your submissions:

1. Create a Submission Tracker: Use a spreadsheet or a tracking tool to keep record of each submission.
2. Note Submission Details: Record the journal’s name, submission date, and any responses you receive.
3. Follow Up: If you don’t hear back within the expected time, it’s okay to send a polite follow-up email.

Handling Rejections: Tips for Poets

Rejections are a normal part of the poetry submission process. Even well-known poets face rejection. It’s important to handle rejection positively and keep trying.

Here’s how to deal with rejection:

1. Don’t Take It Personally: A rejection doesn’t mean your poem is bad. It just wasn’t the right fit for that journal.
2. Learn from Feedback: If you receive feedback, use it to improve your poems.
3. Keep Submitting: The more you submit, the more chances you have of getting published.

Creating a Submission Schedule for Poetry

Having a submission schedule helps you stay organized and ensures that you’re consistently sending out your work.

Here’s how to create a submission schedule:

1. Set Goals: Decide how many poems you want to submit each month.
2. Plan Ahead: Make a list of journals you want to submit to and their deadlines.
3. Stick to Your Schedule: Regularly update your tracker and keep submitting according to your plan.

How to Improve Your Poetry for Submission

Improving your poetry can increase your chances of getting published. Take the time to refine your work before submitting.

Here’s how to enhance your poetry:

1. Read Widely: Read other poets to understand different styles and techniques.
2. Join a Workshop: Participate in writing workshops or groups to get feedback.
3. Revise Regularly: Revise your poems based on feedback and your own reflections.

What to Include in Your Poetry Submission Packet

Your submission packet usually includes your poems and possibly a cover letter. Make sure everything is complete and follows the journal’s guidelines.

Here’s what to include:

1. The Poems: Submit the number of poems requested, formatted correctly.
2. Cover Letter: If required, include a brief cover letter.
3. Bio: Some journals ask for a short biography. Include this if requested.

Success Stories: From Submission to Publication

Hearing about other poets’ success stories can be inspiring. Many poets have faced numerous rejections before finding the right journal for their work.

Here’s why success stories are helpful:

1. Inspiration: They show that rejection is a normal part of the process.
2. Motivation: They remind you that perseverance can lead to success.
3. Learning: You can learn from others’ experiences and strategies.

FAQs

Q: What is poetry submission?
A: Poetry submission is when you send your poems to journals or magazines to be published. It’s a way to share your work with others and get it out into the world.

Q: How do I prepare my poem for submission?
A: Before submitting, make sure your poem is well-edited and follows the journal’s formatting guidelines. Also, check if a cover letter is needed and include it if required.

Q: How can I find the right journals for my poetry?
A: Look for journals that publish poems similar to yours. Check their websites to see if your poetry style matches what they publish.

Q: What should I do if my poem gets rejected?
A: Don’t be discouraged. Rejection is a normal part of the process. Use any feedback to improve your poem and keep submitting to other journals.

Q: How can I track my poetry submissions?
A: Keep a list or use a tracking tool to record where and when you submit your poems. Note any responses you receive to stay organized.