Verve Poetry Press

Submission guidelines

The press accepts poetry pamphlet submissions only during an annual open window; full-length collections are not being considered for this round. The 2027 window opens at 0.01am on 1 April 2027 and closes at midnight on 30 April 2027. What to send: a complete pamphlet manuscript (early drafts of high quality will also be considered), sent as an attached separate file in Word or PDF format to mail@vervepoetryfestival.com, marked clearly as a Pamphlet Submission. Accompanying document: a one-page document covering the writer's poetic journey (favourite poetry books, performers, events attended), publishing history, workshops attended and readings given, plus ambitions for the book and personal plans to help it reach an audience. One page is the maximum length for this document. Writers who cannot access physical books, performances or workshops due to disability or limited income are encouraged to describe online readings, events and free poems instead. Pamphlet length: pamphlets are generally between 22 and 36 pages long and contain between 20 and 30 poems; if in doubt, shorter is better. Other rules: there is no charge to submit and no requirement to purchase a book first. Simultaneous submission to other publishers is accepted, provided the press is told and the submission withdrawn if placed elsewhere. Chosen poets are not charged to publish and are paid royalties.