Submitting to prestigious literary magazines like The Threepenny Review can be a daunting task, especially for emerging writers. However, with a clear understanding of the submission guidelines and a well-crafted piece, you can increase your chances of getting published. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the submission process and improve your writing.
The Threepenny Review is a quarterly literary magazine that publishes fiction, poetry, memoirs, and essays. Founded in 1980, it has established itself as a prominent platform for both established and new writers. The magazine is known for its eclectic mix of voices and styles, making it an exciting space for writers to explore different genres and themes.
Understanding the Submission Guidelines
Before submitting your work, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with The Threepenny Review’s submission guidelines. The magazine accepts submissions via mail and online through their website. They consider fiction, poetry, memoirs, and essays, but each genre has its specific guidelines.
For fiction and memoirs, submissions should be between 1,500 and 4,000 words. Poetry submissions can include up to five poems, and essays should be around 1,500 to 4,000 words. The magazine also accepts submissions for their “Table Talk” section, which features short pieces of around 1,000 words.
Crafting a Compelling Submission
To increase your chances of getting published, it’s crucial to craft a compelling submission. Here are a few tips to help you stand out:
- Read and understand the magazine’s tone and style: Before submitting, read several issues of The Threepenny Review to get a sense of the types of pieces they publish. This will help you understand their tone, style, and the genres they prefer.
- Ensure your piece is well-edited: Make sure your submission is free of grammatical errors, typos, and formatting issues. A well-edited piece demonstrates your professionalism and attention to detail.
- Follow the submission guidelines carefully: Adhere to the submission guidelines, including word count, genre, and formatting requirements. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in your submission being rejected.
- Include a brief bio and cover letter: Along with your submission, include a brief bio and cover letter. The bio should highlight your writing experience and any relevant publications, while the cover letter should introduce your piece and explain why it’s a good fit for The Threepenny Review.
Additional Tips for Success
In addition to crafting a compelling submission, here are a few more tips to help you succeed:
- Be patient: The submission process can take time, so be patient and don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back immediately.
- Keep submitting: If your piece is rejected, don’t give up. Keep submitting to other magazines and publications until you find the right fit.
- Stay up-to-date with the literary scene: Attend writing workshops, join writing groups, and stay current with the latest literary trends to improve your craft and increase your chances of getting published.
Conclusion
submitting to The Threepenny Review, remember to stay focused on your craft, keep learning, and always be open to feedback and improvement. With persistence, dedication, and a passion for writing, you can achieve your literary goals and share your unique voice with the world.
What are the submission guidelines for The Threepenny Review?
+The Threepenny Review accepts submissions via mail and online through their website. They consider fiction, poetry, memoirs, and essays, with specific word count and formatting requirements for each genre.
How can I increase my chances of getting published in The Threepenny Review?
+To increase your chances of getting published, read and understand the magazine’s tone and style, ensure your piece is well-edited, follow the submission guidelines carefully, and include a brief bio and cover letter.
What should I include in my cover letter?
+Your cover letter should introduce your piece, explain why it’s a good fit for The Threepenny Review, and provide any relevant context or background information.
