Earn Money with Poetry: How to Get Paid for Writing Poems
Many people write poetry, but few realize they can get paid for it.
There are numerous ways to monetize your poetry, and once you understand how to succeed, you can turn your passion into profit.
In this guide, you'll discover effective strategies for making money with your poems. From submitting your work to publications and entering contests to exploring various other income-generating methods, you'll learn how to capitalize on your poetic talent.
Can You Get Paid to Write Poetry?
If you’re wondering whether you can earn money from your poetry, you’re not alone. While it may seem unlikely to get paid for poetry by most magazines, blogs, or businesses, opportunities do exist.
Landing poetry jobs, earning money for your writing, and securing bylines are all possible. However, don’t rush to quit your day job just yet; consider poetry as one of several income streams as a freelance writer.
How Much Can You Earn from Poetry?
You might not make a fortune from poetry jobs—very few do. Most poets write for reasons beyond monetary gain. If you're looking to get paid, you can expect to earn between $1.50 and $300 per poem. While this may not match the income from copywriting or other writing markets, getting published can lead to more significant opportunities, such as a book deal.
To make a full-time income from writing, you’ll need to diversify beyond poetry. Don’t forget that as a Den member, you can access over 300 hours of courses and connect with a supportive community of over 1,500 writers.
Where to Find Poetry Jobs
If you're ready to explore your creative side and earn money through poetry, consider these 14 poetry markets:
50 Haikus and Three Line Poetry
- Charge to Submit: None
- Rates: $1.50 per poem + subscription
The American Journal of Nursing
- Charge to Submit: None
- Rates: $150 per poem
The Antigonish Review
- Charge to Submit: $3.00
- Rates: $5 per page (up to 5 pages) + two copies
Arts & Letters
- Charge to Submit: $3
- Rates: $10 per printed page (minimum payment: $50) + contributor copy + one-year subscription
New Letters
- Charge to Submit: $4.95
- Rates: Minimum pay of $12, often exceeding that amount
Poetry Magazine
- Charge to Submit: None
- Rates: $10 per line (minimum payment of $300)
Strange Horizons
- Charge to Submit: None
- Rates: $50 per poem, regardless of length
Cricket Media’s Various Journals
- Charge to Submit: None
- Rates: Up to $3 per line; $25 minimum
Rules for Writing Poetry
If you're serious about getting paid for your poetry, keep these guidelines in mind:
Avoid Posting on Blogs: Journals want to be the first to publish your work. Public posts can disqualify your submissions.
Hone Your Craft: Don’t just write during emotional moments; continually refine and revise your poetry as you would any professional writing.
Research Journals: Read sample poems to understand what each publication seeks, ensuring your work aligns with their style.
Follow Submission Guidelines: Adhering to specific guidelines is crucial; failure to do so can lead to disqualification.
Write for Passion: Authenticity in poetry is vital. Write what inspires you, and then find the right journal for your work.
Threepenny Review: Poetry Submissions and Guidelines
Overview: The Threepenny Review is a distinguished literary magazine that has been promoting diverse voices since 1980. Known for its commitment to high-quality writing, it features an array of genres, including poetry, essays, and literary criticism.
Poetry Submissions:
How to Submit:
- Poets can submit their work either by mail or through an online platform, as specified in the current submission guidelines on their website.
- To get a feel for the magazine’s aesthetic, it’s advisable to read recent issues.
Submission Guidelines:
- Writers are typically allowed to submit up to five poems at a time.
- Poems should be typed and clearly formatted.
- Remember to include your contact information, and if requested, a brief biography.
Submission Fee:
- As of the latest information, there is no fee for submitting poetry.
Response Time:
- The review process can take several months. If you haven’t received a response, it’s acceptable to check in regarding your submission after a reasonable wait.
Rights:
- If accepted, the Threepenny Review usually requests first publication rights, meaning they have the exclusive right to publish your poem for the first time.
- Authors retain the rights to their work following publication.
Payment:
- Payment rates can vary, but Threepenny Review is recognized for offering fair compensation for published pieces. Specific payment details can be found in their submission guidelines.
Publication Schedule:
- The magazine is published quarterly, ensuring a steady stream of engaging literary content.
What They Seek:
- The Threepenny Review is on the lookout for originality, skillful craftsmanship, and a unique voice. They appreciate poetry that is not only thought-provoking but also connects with contemporary issues and celebrates the art form.
Additional Features:
- In addition to poetry, the magazine includes essays and reviews, creating a rich tapestry of literary discourse.
- Featuring contributions from both emerging and established writers, publishing in the Threepenny Review enhances your credibility in the literary community.
Conclusion: For poets eager to share their work, the Threepenny Review provides an excellent opportunity to gain exposure. Be sure to adhere to their submission guidelines and submit a well-crafted selection of your best poetry to improve your chances of publication.
For more details, visit Threepenny Review Submission Guidelines.
Conclusion
While making a living solely from poetry may be challenging, don’t let that deter you if you love writing poetry. There are plenty of opportunities to earn while doing what you enjoy! What poetry markets have you explored?
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