It’s easier than ever to submit your writing for
publication but harder to have the work published. Two keys to having your
writing considered are knowing the publication and following the guidelines.
- Genre:
Make sure the publication considers writing in your genre, and adhere to the
parameters.
- Deadlines & Reading Periods: Many journals set deadlines and
reading periods by genre so make sure you’re submitting at the right time.
- Submission
Methods: Most publications have an online portal; others direct writers to
email. Use the method the publication specifies.
- Formatting: The guidelines specify
whether to attach your work, for example, as a Word document, or include it in
the body of an email. Online portals usually require the upload of a specified
file type.
- Fees: Whether they’re called reading or processing fees, many
literary journals now require a fee to submit work, so it’s up to you to decide
whether the journal is worth the investment.
- Print, Online, or Both: Some
literary magazines are e-zines, meaning they’re online only. Few are
print-only; most have a web and print presence. The better journals have at
least one annual print publication, but pay attention to where your submission
would appear if accepted and whether online acceptance also allows for print
consideration.
- Feedback: Some literary journals, such as Under the Sun, offer feedback whether the work is accepted or not.
These journals are especially friendly to emerging writers.
- Payment: Many
literary magazines pay writers for their accepted work and not just in copies.
As you gain experience, consider sending your work to publications that offer
monetary remuneration.
- Prior Publication: Some publications accept and even welcome
previously published work. But be honest about when and where the original
work, including blog posts, was published.
- Rights: Given the ubiquity of web
content, more publications specify the rights they offer in return for
publishing your work. Among the most common is First North American Serial, the
right to be the first publisher of your work one time in North America.
- Simultaneous
Submissions: If you send your work to more than one publication, seek journals
that accept simultaneous submissions. Most publications do but ask you to let
them know if your work is accepted elsewhere. If a publication says “no
simultaneous”, respect the journal’s requirement.
- Theme: Because of their
longer shelf life, anthologies are great places to send work. Since many are
theme-based, check the specifications on how tightly or loosely the theme is interpreted.
- Contact Information: Some publications read blind, meaning they don’t want to
be swayed by what your name may tell them about you, so make sure you follow the
parameters.
Duotrope, NewPages and
Poets & Writers Classifieds
are free online resources for places to send your work. When in doubt about
whether your piece is a fit, query the journal’s editor. When when you send
your work, make sure it’s polished and original. If you’ve made it through the
above list, you’ll make it through the guidelines.
