Submitting your poetry to reputable platforms can be both exciting and challenging, requiring careful attention to detail to stand out among the vast pool of submissions. Understanding the proper poetry submission guidelines is essential for ensuring your work reaches its full potential. Whether you’re aiming to submit to established poetry magazines or exploring newer avenues, mastering the right format, spacing, and presentation is crucial. This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of crafting a compelling submission, from formatting your work correctly to navigating the submission requirements of various publications. By adhering to these tips, you can enhance your chances of acceptance and elevate your poetic voice to the next level.

How to Format Poetry for Submission

Formatting your poetry manuscript correctly is essential for gaining acceptance with publishers and literary platforms. Below are key guidelines to follow:

General Formatting Guidelines

• Font and Size: Use a standard serif font like Times New Roman, 12-point size.
• Margins: Leave 1-inch margins on all sides of the page.
• Spacing: Double-space your text, with 1.5 line spacing.
• Page Numbers: Include page numbers in the header (e.g., on the left side, ½ inch from the top).

Manuscript Structure

• Title Page: Include the title, your name, and contact information. Center the title and subtitle (if any) on the page.
• Table of Contents: List all poems with their page numbers. Alphabetize the list by poem title.
• Poetry Sections:
  • Your own name as the author
  • The title of your collection (if applicable)
  • A brief bio or writer’s note (optional)
• Copyright Page: Include “© [Year] by [Your Name]. All rights reserved.” on the last page.

Formatting Poetry Pieces

• Titles: Use bold for standalone poems and italics for poems within a collection.
• Line Breaks: Start each poem on a new page. Indent each line 0.5 inches from the left.
• Indentation: Minimal indentation (approx. 0.5 inches) for each line of poetry.
• Quotations: Use quotation marks or ellipses for excerpted lines. Keep the original formatting intact if quoting from another source.

Avoid Common Errors

• Never use excessive line breaks or unjustified text.
• Ensure consistent formatting throughout your manuscript.
• Avoid using decorative fonts or colors.
• Proofread for spelling and grammatical errors before submission.

Inclusive Elements

• Acknowledgments: Mention anyone who contributed significantly to your work.
• References: Cite any borrowed material or influences appropriately.
• Permissions: Include permissions for any copyrighted material used.

Final Tips

• Read and follow the specific guidelines of the publisher or platform you’re submitting to.
• Use a consistent style throughout your manuscript.
• Seek feedback from trusted peers or mentors before submission.

Guidelines for Writing Poetry

Silken Drum offers comprehensive guidelines for poetry to help aspiring writers craft meaningful and impactful works. Below are essential principles to consider:

• Clarity and Simplicity:** Your poetry should be accessible, avoiding overly complex language or obscure references. Use imagery that resonates with readers.
• Imagery and Symbolism:** Utilize vivid descriptions and symbols to convey emotions and ideas. Make your imagery memorable and evocative.

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• Structure and Form:** Experiment with various poetic forms like sonnets, haiku, or free verse. Consistency in rhythm and rhyme enhances readability.
• Emotion and Connection:** Express genuine feelings and connect with your audience. Authenticity makes poetry relatable and powerful.
• Originality:** While inspired by others, ensure your work is unique. Plagiarism diminishes originality and creativity.
• Consistency:** Regularly write and revise to develop your style. Practice helps refine your skills and voice.
• Feedback and Growth:** Share your poetry with peers or mentors for constructive criticism. This fosters growth and improves your craft.
• Research and Study:** Explore diverse themes, cultures, and historical periods to enrich your subject matter and perspectives.
• Balance and Economy:** Avoid excessive words. Be concise yet impactful, allowing each line to contribute meaningfully.
• Sparsity and Space:** Leave room for interpretation. White space allows readers to reflect and engage deeply with your work.

To further enhance your poetry journey, visit our poetry tools and resources page for additional insights and creative exercises. Discover how to refine your craft and explore innovative techniques that inspire greatness.

Payment Structure

Our payment structure is designed to support and recognize the hard work of our contributors. Here’s how we compensate for your submissions:

Payment Rates

• Poetry Submissions: $10 per line with a minimum honorarium of $400 per poem.
• Prose Submissions: $250 per magazine page.

Translation Policy

We encourage the sharing of poetry through translation. For translated works, we split the payment 50/50 between the translator and the original author or rights holder. This ensures fair compensation and recognition for all parties involved.

By submitting to Silken Drum , you agree to these terms, which aim to foster a supportive and collaborative environment for creative expression.

Should Poetry Submissions Be Double Spaced?

Yes, poetry submissions should typically be submitted with single line spacing rather than double. This format is commonly preferred by literary journals and competitions to maintain consistency and readability. Single spacing allows for better visualization of line breaks and poetic rhythm, making it easier for editors and readers to engage with the text.

However, it’s essential to verify the specific submission guidelines of the journal or competition you’re submitting to, as some may have unique preferences or not specify line spacing requirements. Generally, adhering to the standard single line spacing format is recommended unless otherwise specified.

The Best Font for Poetry Submissions

For poetry submissions, selecting the right font is crucial to enhance readability and aesthetic appeal. Here are the top recommendations based on style, tradition, and versatility:

1. Serif Fonts :
2. Garamond : Known for its elegant balance, Garamond is a popular choice among poets due to its readability and classical aesthetics.
3. Georgia : Another excellent serif font, Georgia offers a modern twist with its slightly rounded letters, making it suitable for both traditional and contemporary poetry.
4. Sans-Serif Fonts :
5. Helvetica : A clean and minimalist option, Helvetica is ideal for poems that prefer a more streamlined look while maintaining clarity.
6. Considerations :
7. Readability : Ensure the chosen font is legible in both print and digital formats.
8. Style and Structure : Match the font to the poem’s style—formal poems may benefit from serif fonts, while modern pieces can shine with sans-serif options.
9. Submission Guidelines : Always check specific contest or platform requirements to adhere to their font preferences.

By carefully selecting a font that aligns with the poem’s character and submission guidelines, you can ensure your work stands out effectively.

Spacing for Poetry

Poetry typically follows specific formatting rules regarding spacing to enhance readability and visual appeal. The most common standard is double-spaced lines, though single-spaced is also widely used, particularly in publications and certain writing styles. Consistency in spacing is crucial for maintaining a clean and professional appearance.

For line spacing, the recommended measurement is generally around 1.5 to 2 times the size of the font used. This ensures adequate space between lines without appearing too sparse or cluttered. Proper spacing allows readers to easily follow the flow of words and phrases, contributing to a more engaging reading experience.

Additionally, poets may choose to vary line breaks and enjambment based on the rhythm and meter of their work. Each line should ideally convey a complete thought or a meaningful segment of the poem, avoiding excessive line breaks that disrupt the narrative.

By adhering to these guidelines, poets can create a visually appealing and readable piece that effectively communicates their intended message.

Conclusion

Proper spacing in poetry is essential for both aesthetic and functional purposes. Maintaining consistent line spacing enhances readability and ensures that the poetic form is presented clearly and professionally.