Oct 08 2008
Should you or shouldn’t you? - The Cover Letter
Cover letters for poetry submissions are a way to introduce yourself and work to the publication. Magazines will specify whether or not they want a cover letter. If they do not specify then a friendly note will suffice either by email or snail mail. Make sure to always put your name, address and email on the letter so if this is a paying market they will have your info.Always include a date so as to keep track of your submission.Find out the name of the Editor and address the submission to him or her. If the submission is by email, you obviously do not need to include the name & address of the publication.
Name the poems you are submitting and don’t send more than three unless the publication guidelines ask for more. Make sure to note if they have been previously published and where they were published.
Editors like to know you have some familiarity with their publication. So, even if you don’t want to buy a copy before you submit check them out online and make sure to leave a reference to something you saw so they know you’ve visited or read their zine.
If you’ve had any of your work published, then make sure to let them know. If you’ve never been published then no need for that sentence.
Lastly, thank them for their time and ask to hear from them soon. I always include that because I like to embed that subliminal hint saying “I don’t want to wait 6 months to hear from you.”
Also, never send a bio with your submission unless specifically solicited.
Most importantly, if this is a snail mail submission make sure to INCLUDE A SASE.
I hope these tips help and if you have any questions at all please feel free to contact me or leave your question as a comment.
EXAMPLE LETTER
Ms. Mary Poetess
1234 Main Street
S.F,. CA. 01234
(123)456-7890
marypoetess@yahoo.com
October 8, 2008
Mr. John Bard
Poetry Magazine
123 Poetry Place
S.F., CA 43210Dear Mr. Bard:
I am submitting three poems for your consideration titled, “I want to be published,” “Send me a check” and “Thanks for the memories.” None have been previously published.
I am an avid reader of your magazine and very much enjoyed reading the poem “Feature me next time” in your third issue.My poetry has appeared in Free Verse Magazine, Rhyme Thyme and The Beats.
Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Mary Poetess
Great information and sample letter!
Thanks.