Question:
Publishing Poetry?
Does anyone know anything about how to get poetry published? I am an aspiring poet, and would like to attempt to get some of my poems published.
Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
First, have the courage to call yourself "a poet," not just an aspiring poet. On the other hand, I met Galway Kinnell at a reading / book signing a few years ago, and asked him, "When did you know you were going to be a poet?" He inclined his head, and paused. "I just started writing poetry. I'm still not sure that I'm a poet." I said I understood the distinction, but surely he knew by now . . . what would make him a poet. He dipped his beautiful gold-nibbed pen into the bottle of ink and inscribed the book with a flourish. "It's like the saints. They do things better, they ARE better, than others. But they don't know while they're alive. The decision is made after they're dead. So you'll have to tell me, I won't be around to know." We smiled at one another. "I'll send you a smoke signal," I promised, and thanked him for his time.
As for publication, go buy the 2007 "Poet's Market." It contains a list of every single periodical that publishes poetry, from hand-Xeroxed and stapled to the cream of the crop like The New Yorker. For each, it includes detailed submission information. I don't know if the latest version has the same introductory article, but mine has several essays on how to use the guide, and more generally, the process of submission. Follow their suggestions religiously.
Here is my distilled wisdom from my experience:
Rule #1: Always, always, ALWAYS include a SASE.
Rule #2: Get an idea of the publication first, read the editorial details in the listing, and follow them scrupulously. Better yet, also order a copy first, so you can send a submission that fits their needs.
Rule #3: Start small -- with the smaller publications. Really small. Atlantic Monthly won't touch you if you haven't been published before.
Rule #4: Be prepared to be rejected, again and again and again, and try not to take it personally. The first rejection hurt like hell. By the 50th or so (by which time I had been published a few times), I took it with such good humor I wallpapered the bathroom with rejection slips.
Rule #5: Be businesslike. Use a computer to store final versions and print out clean copies for submission. Include a personalized cover letter that shows you know something about the publication (a compliment doesn't hurt, either). Keep records of what you've submitted where.
Rule #6: Don't badger the editor. Wait a good long time before following up with an inquiry about your submission (it can take as long as 6 months) and if you do follow up, BE POLITE.
Rule #7: Never forget the object is to write good poetry, with publication as a consequence, not the primary purpose. Take classes, join workshops, go to readings, try open-mike nights, and read, read, read widely.
Rule #8: Never, never, never give up.
Good luck!