Top 30: Outstanding Poetry Journals and Publishers to Submit Your Work Online
- Dec 10, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Mar 16
Building a publication history is crucial for poets aiming to be featured in top-tier journals, where acceptance rates can be as low as 1%. To improve your chances, it's essential to submit strategically, starting with journals that offer higher acceptance rates—some as high as 80%—before working up to more competitive publications. Targeting the right journals at the right stage of your career increases your likelihood of publication and strengthens your credentials for future submissions.
That’s exactly why we’ve divided our list of online poetry journals into three categories, helping you find the best fit based on your experience, publication history, and writing goals. Whether you're just starting out or looking to land a spot in a prestigious literary magazine, this guide will help you navigate the submission process effectively.
First-Publication Journals
Ideal for poets new to publishing or building their portfolios, these journals are accessible, supportive, and open to emerging voices. Submissions are often welcomed year-round, making them an excellent starting point for early-career poets.
Reputable Online Poetry Journals
Designed for poets with some publication experience, these journals are highly regarded in the literary community. They offer competitive submission processes and professional recognition, helping poets expand their publication history while reaching broader audiences.
High-Level Poetry Journals
These prestigious literary journals are known for launching professional writing careers. With selective submission processes and international recognition, being published in one of these elite journals can open doors to literary awards, fellowships, and book deals.
Let’s dive into the best online poetry journals for your writing journey.
Places to Submit Poetry Online: Reputable First Publications
These journals welcome both emerging and established poets, offering a supportive space for creative exploration. Getting published here is not just a way to build your writing portfolio—it’s an opportunity to connect with literary communities that celebrate diverse voices, fresh perspectives, and innovative storytelling.
Whether you’re submitting your first poem or expanding an established publication history, these journals provide a nurturing platform where writers can experiment, grow, and gain recognition for their work. Publishing with them can open doors to new creative opportunities, professional connections, and a deeper engagement with the literary world.
Eunoia Review
Why Submit: Known for its lightning-fast 24-hour response time, Eunoia Review publishes work with strong narrative elements and creative storytelling. They accept poetry submissions year-round, making them a reliable and accessible platform.
Thrush Poetry Journal
Why Submit: Thrush Poetry Journal publishes powerful, emotionally resonant poetry that surprises and moves readers. Named after the songbird with “the most beautiful voice in the world,” this bimonthly publication champions both emerging and established poets. Let your poems sing!
Palette Poetry
Why Submit: Palette Poetry regularly features emerging poets and pays contributors. They also offer helpful feedback through their Community Feedback Monthly Editorial.
3Elements Literary Review
Why Submit: 3Elements issues quarterly calls for submissions featuring three creative prompts, such as “trapeze,” “pinprick,” and “calico.” The challenge lies in crafting poems that skillfully incorporate all three elements, making for a unique and dynamic writing exercise.
FreezeRay Poetry
Why Submit: Poetry meets pop culture at FreezeRay, where creative works inspired by modern media shine. From video games to cult classics and horror films, FreezeRay is the go-to spot for poets blending literary art with cultural commentary.
Barren Magazine
Why Submit: Known for its introspective and emotionally charged poetry, Barren Magazine publishes monthly issues exploring the depths of the human experience. They also offer merchandise and plan to launch online contests for poetry and fiction.
Ghost City Review
Why Submit: As part of Ghost City Press, this journal welcomes both traditional and experimental poetry. Their commitment to supporting the literary community extends to publishing free e-books, sponsoring literary events, and keeping funds circulating within the publishing world.
Rising Phoenix Review
Why Submit: Rising Phoenix Review is dedicated to showcasing poetry with visceral imagery and a strong emotional core. They champion diverse voices while publishing work that imagines a better, more inclusive world. Consider submitting here if your poetry is driven by powerful personal and social themes.
Little Death Lit
Why Submit: Specializing in the macabre and gothic, Little Death Lit seeks poetry that explores dark, unconventional themes. They issue quarterly prompts designed to push creative boundaries, making them an excellent space for experimental poets and storytellers.
These first-publication journals offer excellent starting points for building your poetry portfolio while connecting with supportive literary communities. Stay tuned as we explore more reputable poetry journals and high-level literary platforms in the next sections of our guide!
Reputable Poetry Journals for Emerging and Experienced Poets
These poetry journals are open to both emerging and established writers, offering great opportunities to build your portfolio and grow your literary career.
Palette Poetry
Why Submit: Palette Poetry offers multiple opportunities, from its “Previously Published Poem Prize” to its regular features and partner poet program, which pays $50 to $150 per poem. Their prestigious contest awards $2,500 for first place, $300 for second, and $200 for third, plus publication. They also offer Community Feedback Monthly Editorial, where poets can receive personalized feedback.
Rattle
Why Submit: Rattle stands out for its $15,000 Poetry Prize, one of the largest in the poetry world. They also host monthly and annual contests, including their Ekphrastic Challenge and News Poem Challenge, with payouts ranging from $50 to $200 per poem.
Wildness Journal
Why Submit: An offshoot of Platypus Press, Wildness Journal publishes highly literary and aesthetically striking works. They also publish full-length poetry collections, making them a great option if you’re building toward a manuscript publication.
Adroit Journal
Why Submit: The Adroit Journal is renowned for amplifying young and emerging voices. They publish bold, daring poetry that pushes boundaries, while also offering scholarships, mentorships, and awards for up-and-coming poets.
Frontier Poetry
Why Submit: Frontier Poetry seeks work that pushes the limits of language and form while advancing the poetic craft. Their annual contests offer prizes ranging from $100 to $500, with specific categories for new and emerging poets.
Split Lip Mag
Why Submit: Split Lip Mag loves authentic, culturally relevant poetry. They pay $50 per poem and have a strong community-driven editorial process. Their distinctive style makes them an exciting place to submit.
8Poems
Why Submit: As the name suggests, 8Poems publishes just eight poems a month, making it highly selective. They prefer narrative-driven, emotionally compelling work that stands out through lyrical experimentation.
Southeast Review
Why Submit: Southeast Review is a highly respected literary journal that prioritizes poetry with a story to tell. They accept submissions year-round and offer honorariums for published work.
The Summit of Poetry: Top-Tier Literary Journals
These prestigious journals are at the pinnacle of the poetry world. Publications here can launch literary careers and open new professional doors.
Poetry Magazine
Why Submit: Poetry Magazine, published by the Poetry Foundation, is the oldest English-language poetry journal in the world. Known for publishing both traditional and experimental works, the magazine receives over 150,000 submissions annually, making acceptance a significant milestone for any poet.
CONSIDERATIONS:
Copyright and Rights: Upon acceptance, Poetry Magazine requests first North American serial rights and the right to archive the work digitally. Copyright reverts to the poet after publication, allowing them to publish the poem elsewhere with appropriate acknowledgment of its first appearance in Poetry Magazine.
Simultaneous Submissions: Allowed but must be withdrawn immediately if accepted elsewhere.
Response Time: Due to high submission volume, expect a four to six-month wait for a response.
Payment: The magazine offers competitive rates for published poems, including $10 per line with a minimum of $300 per poem. This makes Poetry Magazine one of the highest-paying poetry publications worldwide.
The New Yorker Magazine
Why Submit: The New Yorker is a cultural icon that publishes two poems weekly. Though it receives thousands of submissions annually, acceptance into this magazine is considered one of the most prestigious literary achievements in the poetry world.
CONSIDERATIONS:
Copyright and Rights: Upon acceptance, The New Yorker typically requests North American serial rights first, meaning they have the right to publish your poem first. After publication, copyright reverts to the poet, though The New Yorker retains archival and reprint rights for specific future uses, such as anthologies or digital archives.
Simultaneous Submissions: Not allowed. Be sure to wait for their response before submitting the same poem elsewhere.
Response Time: Due to the high volume of submissions, expect to wait six months or longer for a reply.
Payment: The New Yorker pays competitive rates for poetry, often considered some of the highest in the industry.
AGNI
Why Submit: AGNI, Boston University’s literary journal, is famous for publishing poetry that defies conventions. They accept submissions from September to May and seek work that challenges literary norms while maintaining artistic rigor.
The Kenyon Review
Why Submit: The Kenyon Review champions language-driven poetry while hosting workshops, fellowships, and community events. They are well respected for shaping literary talent through thoughtful publication and educational outreach.
Harvard Review
Why Submit: Harvard Review publishes emerging and established voices, often pairing rising stars with literary icons. Their August reading period is highly competitive but well worth the submission effort.
Lit Hub
Why Submit: Literary Hub (Lit Hub) is a literary news outlet that frequently partners with top journals to publish notable works. They spotlight established and emerging poets through editorial features and exclusive publication partnerships.
The American Scholar
Why Submit: Known for its coverage of science, culture, and current affairs, The American Scholar also publishes high-quality poetry in its Web Only section, offering payouts up to $250 per poem.
Ploughshares
Why Submit: Ploughshares is one of the most respected literary journals, publishing contemporary poetry that contributes to the broader literary conversation. They accept submissions between June and January.
Tips for Navigating the Poetry Submission Process
Research Past Issues
Before submitting, read past issues to understand a journal’s tone, style, and editorial preferences. Pay close attention to recurring themes, forms, and styles they seem to favor. Think of it like preparing for a meaningful relationship—you wouldn’t jump into something serious without getting to know the other person first. Similarly, submitting to a literary journal without understanding its creative identity is like showing up to a formal dinner in jeans and a t-shirt. Compatibility matters. The more your work aligns with the journal’s aesthetic, the better your chances of creating a literary match made in heaven.
Follow Submission Guidelines
Carefully review the submission guidelines for formatting, word count, and accepted file types. Stick to industry standards like 12-point serif fonts and double-spacing, unless otherwise specified. Correctly formatted submissions demonstrate professionalism and respect for the editor’s time.
Craft a Strong Title
Stand out from the first glance with a memorable, thought-provoking title. Pair it with a compelling opening line that draws the reader in. In a competitive poetry world, first impressions matter—make your title an invitation editors can’t resist.
Personalize Your Cover Letter
Write a brief, personalized cover letter when required—and even when not required. Mention why you’re excited about this publication specifically and how your work fits their literary vision. Be authentic but professional—let your passion for writing shine through.
Submit Thoughtfully
Submit only your best, polished work. Don’t rush the process—revise thoroughly, read your poems aloud, and consider getting feedback from trusted peers or mentors before submitting.
Closing Thoughts on Online Poetry Submissions
The literary world can be highly competitive, but persistence and resilience pave the way to success. Rejection is not a reflection of your talent—it often comes down to a journal’s specific editorial needs, theme preferences, or limited publication space.
Each submission experience is an opportunity for growth. Use feedback (or even the lack of it) to refine your craft, strengthen future submissions, and broaden your understanding of the publishing process.
Most importantly, believe in your voice. There’s always a journal, a reader, or a community waiting to connect with the stories only you can tell. Keep writing, keep submitting, and trust that every step brings you closer to the right home for your work. Your literary journey is just beginning.
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