Submit Your Poetry: The Ultimate Guide to Platforms and Publications

Are you a poet looking to share your work with the world? Whether you're aiming for broad exposure or the chance to publish in prestigious literary journals, there are myriad options available to you. From literary magazines to social media platforms and poetry contests, this comprehensive guide will help you submit your poetry and reach the right audience.

1. Literary Magazines and Journals

For poets seeking recognition and perhaps a boost in their career, literary magazines and journals can be the gateway to success. Here are some top-tier and mid-tier options:

Top Tier:

The New Yorker Poetry Magazine Ploughshares The Kenyon Review The Paris Review

These publications are highly prestigious but also highly competitive. Average acceptance rates for these journals can be as low as 0.1%, making them the dream destination for many poets.

Mid-Tier or Emerging:

Rattle Coffin Bell The Adroit Journal Frontier Poetry Palette Poetry RustMoth

These publications are often more welcoming to emerging writers and can provide a stepping stone to greater recognition.

2. Online Poetry Platforms

For poets looking to reach a broad audience, online poetry platforms can be an excellent choice. Here are a few popular options:

Hello Poetry: A supportive community where poets can share and discover new work. AllPoetry: A large platform for sharing poetry and receiving constructive feedback. PoetrySoup: Ideal for community engagement and showcasing your work.

These platforms not only provide a space to publish your poetry but also offer a community for feedback and engagement.

3. Poetry Contests

Poetry contests can be a great way to gain exposure, win prizes, and receive feedback from established poets and judges. Here are some notable contests:

Academy of American Poets Prizes: Available for both students and established poets. The Poetry Society UK: Hosts several international competitions. The Bridport Prize Tom Howard/Margaret Reid Poetry Contest Button Poetry Contests

Participating in these contests can help build your skills and reputation as a poet.

4. Anthologies

Anthologies can be a great way to get your work published and connected with a broader audience. Some notable platforms include:

Chicken Soup for the Soul Notion Press Writers Workshop Kolkata Hawakal Publishers

Anthologies allow poets to showcase their work in themed collections, reaching a wider audience and sometimes even opening doors to broader publication.

5. Social Media

Social media platforms can provide a new and vibrant venue to share your poetry. Here are a few popular options:

Instagram: Share your poetry as visual or written content. Twitter (now X): Share poetry and engage with other poets and readers. TikTok (PoetryTok): Many poets have gained traction by performing or sharing their work here.

Social media can be a powerful tool for promotion and networking with other poets.

6. Local and National Organizations

Local poetry societies and organizations can provide networking opportunities and submission information:

Poetry Society of India Writers Workshops Open Mics and Readings: Attend these events to network and learn about submission opportunities.

Engaging with local communities can help you gain credibility and visibility as a poet.

7. Self-Publishing

If you're looking for more control over your work, self-publishing can be a good option:

Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) Wattpad Scribd

Self-publishing platforms allow you to create and distribute your poetry collections, giving you full control over the publication process.

Tips for Submission

When submitting your poetry, follow these tips for success:

Follow the submission guidelines meticulously. Include a cover letter introducing yourself and your work. Consider submitting to publications that match your poetry style.

These tips will increase your chances of receiving positive feedback and publication.

For Indian Poets

Indian poets can take advantage of a variety of platforms and publications specific to their needs:

1. Literary Magazines and Journals in India

The Indian Quarterly The Bangalore Review Outlook India Muse India The Bombay Literary Magazine Nether Quarterly

These magazines cater to a diverse and passionate audience.

2. Anthologies by Indian Publishers

Writers Workshop Kolkata Red River Hawakal Publishers Notion Press

Anthologies offer a great platform for published and emerging poets to showcase their work.

3. Online Platforms and Communities

Terribly Tiny Tales YourQuote The Alipore Post Indigo Dreams Youth Ki Awaaz

These online platforms provide a space for poets to share their work and connect with readers.

4. National Competitions and Awards

Prizes from the Poetry Society of India Write India Initiative And All India Poetry Competitions

Participating in these contests can help build your reputation and gain exposure.

5. Regional and Vernacular Platforms

Bharatiya Jnanpith Kavita Kosh Ananda Publishers

These platforms cater to poets writing in regional Indian languages.

6. Poetry Events and Open Mics

Share your work at events like:

Spoken Fest by Kommune India Airplane Poetry Movement Local poetry cafes or cultural hubs in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, or Bengaluru

These events can provide valuable networking opportunities and exposure.

7. Social Media and Online Promotion

Utilize social media platforms to share your poetry:

Instagram YourQuote Rekhta for Urdu and Hindi poetry

Start a blog or submit your work to poetry pages with a large following to gain visibility.

Final Thoughts

With so many options available, there's no excuse not to share your poetry. Use these tips and resources to submit your work and reach the right audience. Whether you're looking for recognition, exposure, or just a place to share your passion, the world of poetry publishing is waiting for you.