Trying to get your work published can feel like wandering in a maze. If you're running into one dead end after another, not sure which way to turn, this workshop can demystify the process and help you reach your destination—publication.

Mapping the Maze is an online workshop designed for poets and writers of literary prose (fiction and narrative nonfiction) who have developed their craft and are now ready to make a concrete plan for getting their work published.

We recognize that a poet's publishing journey is different in many ways from that of a prose writer. This edition of Mapping the Maze is designed with poets in mind, and is presented in partnership with The Acentos Review.

In this workshop you will:

Learn to prepare submissions to literary journals and presses
Gain insight into the business side of publishing
Network with an established author as they share stories from their own paths to publication
Be introduced to Poets & Writers’ online resources
Learn about our presenting partner The Acentos Review
Leave with a clear, actionable plan outlining your personal publishing goals and the steps you will take to achieve them

This workshop might be for you if you are:

Ready to submit poems to literary magazines but don’t know where to begin
Submitting work regularly, but not getting the response you want
Seeking direction on publishing a chapbook or your debut manuscript
Eager to expand your writing community

**The registration fee includes a one-year subscription to Poets & Writers Magazine (or an extension of your existing subscription).

WORKSHOP SCHEDULE

Below is an overview of the workshop, which will span three days. In addition, prior to the workshop, participants will be asked to watch Publishing 101, a video about publishing narrated by Kevin Larimer, editor in chief of Poets & Writers. Participants will be emailed a link to watch the video prior to the workshop.

Monday, April 29
6:15-6:45 p.m. ET | Publishing 101 Q&A w/ Kevin Larimer (editor in chief, Poets & Writers)

6:45-8:00 p.m. ET | Submitting to Literary Magazines and Journals w/ Raina J. León, PhD (editor and co-founder, The Acentos Review)
A literary magazine editor will share their publication's submissions processes, what they are looking for in new work, and other opportunities. They will also discuss the editorial process, what happens once a work is accepted, and share tips for making sure your submission has the best chance of getting published.

Wednesday, May 1
*Please note: The Writer's Journey w/Vickie Vértiz, originally scheduled for this date at 6:15-7:30 p.m. ET, has been rescheduled for Friday, May 3 at the same time.

7:45-9:00 p.m. ET | How and Why to Publish a Chapbook w/ Leah Huete de Maines (Finishing Line Press)
A publisher will explore what makes a chapbook and its value for poets, and share information about their press, including the submission process, contests, and prizes; and what advice they have for a writer who is still finding their way along the publishing journey.

Friday, May 3
6:15-7:30 p.m. ET | The Writer's Journey w/ Vickie Vértiz (author of Auto/Body, University of Notre Dame Press)
An acclaimed author will share stories about their literary careers—how they got started and their experience in the publishing world—and offer advice for aspiring and early-career writers.

A special thank you to our partner:

The Acentos Review publishes poetry, fiction, nonfiction, interviews, translations, cross-genre work, and artwork by emerging and established Latinx writers, artists, and creatives four times a year. It welcomes submissions in English, Spanish, Spanglish, Portuguese, and indigenous languages. Founded in 2008 by Raina J. León and Eliel Lucero inspired by the visionary reading series, The Acentos Bronx Poetry Showcase (2003-2008), which was founded by Oscar Bermeo and Fish Vargas, The Acentos Review has now published well over a thousand Latinx voices in its history. Dr. León continues to edit the journal with associate editor, Lupe Mendez. The Acentos Review celebrates creative work that rises from ancestral traditions, references various literary and cultural practices, breaks the rules and experiments, and is (or is not) infused by the various communities, cultures, and histories of Latinx diasporic peoples. We strive to create space for the publication of work that explores the fullness of our communities.

Mapping the Maze for Poets: Chart Your Path to Publication