IGNORE THE ADS ABOVE THIS LINE. THEY ARE NOT RECOMMENDED BY NOR ASSOCIATED WITH THE NATIONAL POETRY REVIEW.

The National Poetry Review


Painting by Bruce Brezel

Submission Guidelines

While the editor is fond of fresh formal verse, rich sound, play within form, lyricality, image, metaphor — especially extended metaphor — and unique diction and syntax, TNPR is interested in well-crafted poetry in both formal and free verse modes. (It is not likely to publish, however, prose poems, simple confessional work, or vulgarity.) For a few examples of editor favorites, see S. D. Lishan's "Eurydice and Loverboy," Rhina Espaillat's "Man Raking Leaves," Kathleen Jamie's "Skeins o Geese," John Brehm's "Songbird," Kimberly Johnson's "Sonnet," Gary Short's "Psalm," James Wright's "Eleutheria," Mary Oliver's "Poppies," Margot Schilpp's "Manifesto," and Anna Rabinowitz's "Ecosystem."

Response to submissions is normally 1-6 weeks. In a regular-sized envelope, submit 3 - 5 poems, cover letter with bio, contact information including email address if you have one (email addresses will be kept confidential), and SASE. Please write your own address in the return address area of your SASE as well as in the addressee area. If you are a TNPR subscriber, please include that information on your cover letter or elsewhere on the submission. Simultaneous submissions are acceptable IF: 1) you mention that fact in your cover letter; 2) you are prepared to withdraw the work from other places if we accept it (keep in mind that TNPR is quick with responses); and 3) you let us know immediately if it gets accepted elsewhere.

No previously published poems, please.

No unsolicited email submissions, please.

Artwork submissions are also considered for TNPR's cover.

Address submissions to:

C. J. Sage, Editor
The National Poetry Review
Post Office Box 640625
San Jose, California 95164-0625

The National Poetry Review acquires first rights for all work published. Reprint rights revert to the author after publication in TNPR; please include first publication acknowledgments to The National Poetry Review in subsequent publications. Payment is one copy of the issue in which your work appears, and, beginning with the Fall 04 issue, a small honorarium for each poet will replace the editor's prize.
(The Annie Finch Prize for Poetry remains a yearly offering.)


Home | Masthead | Mission Statement |