When writers feel ready to send their work into the world, the array of periodicals, presses and guidelines can seem overwhelming. There are a wide variety of literary magazines in Canada, from cheap 'zines to glossy perfect bound journals to choose from, but know their rules for success.
Research:
Before submitting to any of them, research the titles. Just like publishing houses, periodicals have certain styles, forms and types of writing they prefer. As long time editor Ross Cusack advises: “Identify your target publication and obtain several copies, read them and get a feel for the style.” For instance, it's better not to send a nature story to a magazine that specializes in urban culture or free-verse to a formalist publication. Be clear as to what the magazine's submission guidelines are and when their reading period is. Some magazines read all year around. Most read for a 4-6 month period, usually in the Spring and Fall.
Submissions:
Submit no more than 6-8 poems or one story, within their specified word count. Double-check the work to make sure it's free of errors in grammar or spelling. Cleanly type and number the pieces and write your name and address in the upper right hand corner. Include a cover letter stating what manuscript in progress this work is from and listing a few places you've previously been published. Don't attach a bio or CV unless they ask for one. Put your paperclipped writing in a manila envelope affixed to a self addressed stamped envelope. This way the editor can return the work in case of rejection or inform the writer of acceptances.
Expectations:
Wait times vary but usually range from three months to a year. For any longer than this, write a query letter asking the journal about the status of your submission. Sometimes submissions get lost in the “slush heap.” Also submit to online journals. They are less prestigious but usually have faster response times. Keep records of submissions. Don't send the same work to different magazines at the same time, especially if the magazine pays for contributions. Rejection is common. Never take it personally. Paper the wall with rejection slips as Robert Frost did! Cynthia Washington, publisher of the N2Arts Magazine suggests that, “when you receive a rejection, reread your work, and perhaps do some rewriting, then send the piece to a different publication.”
Rewards:
When an acceptance letter arrives, remember that remuneration is often small for poets, usually a bit larger for fiction writers. Writers also receive a complimentary copy of the publication or an honorarium. More importantly though, publication represents a sense of growth for a writer as well as a contribution to a wider literary community.
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