Publishing in Periodicals
Getting your Fiction and Poetry out into the World
Wondering how to publish your poetry or fiction? This article covers researching publications, submission guidelines, and how to deal with rejections and acceptances.
So you think you're ready to send your poem or story into the world? There are a wide variety of literary magazines in Canada, from cheap 'zines to glossy perfect bound journals.
Research:
Before you start to submit to any of them, do your research! 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. You also want to 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 your work in case of rejection or inform you of acceptances.
Expectations:
Wait times vary but usually range from three months to a year. Any longer than this and you should write a query letter asking the journal about the status of your submission. Sometimes submissions get lost in the “slush heap.” You can also submit to online journals. They are less prestigious but usually have faster response times. Keep records of your 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 your wall with rejection slips as Robert Frost did! Cynthia Washington, publisher of the N2Arts Magazine suggests that, “when you receive a reject, reread your work, and perhaps do some rewriting, then send the piece to a different publication.”
Rewards:
If you are lucky enough to get an acceptance letter remember that remuneration is often small for poets, usually a bit larger for fiction writers. You will also receive a complimentary copy of the publication or an honorarium. More importantly though, you will enjoy the sense that you are growing as a writer and contributing to a wider literary community when you publish in periodicals.
