How to Write a Cover Letter for Your Poetry Submission to The New Yorker via Submittable

Welcome to your guide on how to effectively submit your poetry to The New Yorker through Submittable and what to include in your cover letter. If you have a unique poem that you love, here’s how to make your submission stand out.

Research and Preparation

Before you start writing your cover letter, it's crucial to do a bit of research. Go to the The New Yorker website and check their submission guidelines. These guidelines will tell you exactly what they are looking for in a submission, and that's what you should craft your submission around. This ensures your work aligns with their expectations and increases your chances of success.

Important Points to Research:- Specific poetic genres they prefer- Word limits for submissions- Any recent themes or themes they are interested in- Contact information for the current poetry editor

Writing Your Cover Letter

Your cover letter is your first impression. It serves as a brief introduction to your work and your poetical voice. Try to keep it concise and to the point. Below is a template you can follow to structure your cover letter effectively.

Template for Your Cover Letter

Start by addressing the editor directly. If you can, find the name of the poetry editor from their website or social media pages. If not, you can address them as “Dear Editor.” Mention the poem you are submitting and your approximate word count (e.g., “Dear [Poetry Editor’s Name], I am writing to submit my poem titled '87 Words' along with a brief cover letter.”).

Provide a brief, compelling description of your poem. Explain what you were trying to convey, and why it resonates with you. This can also be an opportunity to mention any specific themes or techniques you employed in the poem. For example, “‘87 Words’ is a reflection on the transient nature of life and the impermanence of moments that often seem ordinary. This poem uses a very specific tercet meter to explore this theme.”

Discuss your background as a poet. Highlight any publications you may have, even if they are from smaller journals. This gives your work context and shows that you have experience. “I have written poetry for several years and have had my work published in the [Name of Journal], a well-respected poetry journal in [City/Region].” If you haven’t been published yet, mention how you came up with this particular composition and why you feel it is a good fit for The New Yorker.

End your letter with a call to action. Thank the editor for their time and consideration, and let them know that you are excited about the possibility of your work being featured in The New Yorker. “Thank you for taking the time to read my submission. I am excited at the prospect of this poem being featured in The New Yorker.”

Final Tips

Remember to proofread your cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. Ensure that your language is professional yet expressive, reflecting your unique voice as a poet. Keep your letter no longer than one page and make sure it complements your poem rather than overpowering it.

Handling Rejection Gracefully

Rejection is a part of the process, and it can be disheartening, especially with a poem you hold dear. However, it's important to approach rejection with a positive mindset. Keep refining your craft, and don't be afraid to submit your work to other journals. There are many talented poets whose first submission to a top-tier journal was also their last, but they continued to write and eventually found success. Consider each rejection an opportunity to learn and improve.

Conclusion

Writing a cover letter for a poetry submission to The New Yorker is an exciting and valuable experience. By doing your research, crafting a compelling and concise cover letter, and approaching the process with a positive attitude, you can increase your chances of success. Remember, every rejection is a step closer to your ultimate goal, and persistence pays off.