Baltimore has long been a vibrant hub for poets, writers, and creative thinkers. From university-run journals to community youth anthologies, the city offers a variety of publication opportunities for emerging and established poets alike. Whether you’re a local writer looking to publish your work in a regionally focused anthology or a poet from elsewhere hoping to be featured in a Baltimore publication, this guide highlights some of the most exciting poetry anthologies accepting submissions right now. Each entry includes essential details about what the anthology is looking for, submission guidelines, and why you should consider submitting your work.
1. Welter, University of Baltimore’s Literary Anthology
Overview
Welter is one of the most respected literary publications in Baltimore, with a history stretching back more than five decades. Produced by graduate students and faculty at the University of Baltimore, this anthology showcases poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction, and visual art. Welter publishes two issues each year , a print issue in spring and a digital issue in fall , and welcomes work from emerging and seasoned writers.
What They Publish
The poetry section of Welter is broad and inclusive, welcoming pieces that range from traditional verse to experimental forms. Submissions can showcase thematic depth, formal innovation, social commentary, and personal insight. The publication places particular value on creative risk-taking and work that resonates with readers emotionally and intellectually.
Submission Guidelines
Welter’s calls for submissions typically open in early September each year and remain open until a submission cap is reached. Poets may submit 1–3 poems totaling no more than three pages, with each poem separated by page breaks. Work must be unpublished and free of identifying information to allow for blind reading by the editorial team.
Why Submit
Welter is ideal for poets who want to see their work in a respected literary context with both regional and national reach. The publication’s long history and commitment to quality make it an excellent first or next-step anthology for poets seeking serious editorial consideration.
2. Baltimore Review, Quarterly Literary Anthology
Overview
The Baltimore Review is a well-established literary anthology that has been publishing poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction for decades. Known for its commitment to diverse voices and strong storytelling, the Baltimore Review highlights work that reflects the vibrancy of Baltimore’s literary community, though submissions are welcome from writers everywhere.
What They Publish
The Baltimore Review’s poetry section is open to a wide range of styles and themes , from lyrical to narrative, from formal to free verse. They are particularly interested in work that connects deeply with readers through vivid imagery, well-crafted language, and emotional resonance.
Submission Windows & Guidelines
While the Baltimore Review occasionally lists specific open periods for submissions, the anthology also maintains rolling submissions for poetry when the reading period is active. Poets may submit multiple poems together and are encouraged to follow the submission guidelines published by the editorial team, including formatting and unpublished status requirements.
Why Submit
Publishing with the Baltimore Review connects poets with a journal that has national visibility and a strong history of featuring work that goes on to receive further recognition. Being accepted here means joining a lineage of writers whose pieces have been acknowledged for their craft across the literary landscape.
3. CHARM: Voices of Baltimore Youth, Community Anthologies
Overview
CHARM Lit Mag is a Baltimore-based nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing the literary and artistic talents of young people. CHARM regularly compiles themed anthologies that feature poetry, prose, and visual art created by youth in the Baltimore area.
What They Publish
CHARM anthologies vary each cycle , some are themed around concepts like empowerment, community, or personal reflection. These prompts are designed to inspire young writers to reflect on personal experiences, social issues, or creative imaginings.
Submission Guidelines
Submissions are typically open for youth writers under a certain age group (often K–12). Work should be submitted according to the anthology’s theme requirements and word/line limits. For example, a recent call invited poetry entries of 300 words or less responding to a prompt about personal resilience.
Why Submit
CHARM anthologies are a powerful opportunity for young poets in Baltimore to have their voices published and celebrated. These anthologies often serve as a stepping stone to future creative opportunities and help build confidence in young writers.
4. Smartish Pace, Baltimore’s Independent Poetry Anthology
Overview
Smartish Pace is an independent poetry anthology based in Baltimore that showcases a diverse array of poetic voices. Although not tied to a university, Smartish Pace has earned national recognition for publishing high-quality poetry and has featured work from Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winners as well as emerging poets.
What They Publish
Smartish Pace typically publishes poems that demonstrate craft, innovation, and depth. The anthology accepts work that is thoughtful, creative, and polished, offering a home for both traditional and experimental poetry.
Submission Notes
Poets interested in submitting should watch for current calls from the editorial team. Submissions must align with the anthology’s commitment to quality and originality.
Why Submit
Being featured in Smartish Pace places you alongside a mix of established and emerging voices in contemporary poetry. The anthology’s reputation for quality makes it a respected platform and a milestone for many poets’ publishing records.
5. 32 Poems, Baltimore-Founded Poetry Anthology
Overview
32 Poems is a poetry anthology that celebrates a global range of poets. Although the anthology publishes two issues annually, it maintains a strong connection to Baltimore’s literary community, having debuted at a local literary conference.
What They Publish
Each issue features exactly 32 poems, giving poets from around the world a chance to be featured in a curated anthology of high-quality work. Contributions range from emerging voices to seasoned poets, with an emphasis on originality and craft.
Submission Guidelines
Submission deadlines typically fall several months before publication. The anthology accepts work from writers of all backgrounds, provided it is unpublished. Each cycle may specify guidelines regarding the number of poems and formatting preferences.
Why Submit
32 Poems is widely respected for its dedication to pure poetic craft. If your work aligns with strong imagery, rhythmical language, and emotional clarity, this anthology can be a great home for your poems.
6. Yellow Arrow Publishing’s Vignette, Women-Identifying Writers
Overview
Yellow Arrow Publishing occasionally runs themed anthology calls that target women-identifying writers with ties to Baltimore or its literary community. These anthologies focus on expressive and evocative poetry and prose.
What They Publish
Anthology themes vary from year to year, often celebrating identity, artistry, resilience, and communal stories. While not exclusively poetry, these anthologies frequently include strong poetic work alongside other creative writing forms.
Submission Guidelines
Guidelines are announced with each call and may include theme, length, and submission window requirements. Work is typically required to be unpublished and may include a short bio or artist statement.
Why Submit
This opportunity is meaningful for women-identifying poets who want a space that foregrounds gender, identity, and artistic voice. Being included in a themed anthology like Vignette places your poetry in a culturally resonant context.
How to Prepare Your Submission (Tips for Success)
Submitting to poetry anthologies , especially competitive ones , requires attention to craft and the submission process itself. Here are a few tips to help your work stand out:
✦ Read Previous Issues
Familiarize yourself with the anthology’s style, tone, and past contributors. This helps tailor your work to the editors’ preferences.
✦ Follow Guidelines Closely
Respecting formatting, length limits, and submission windows shows professionalism and makes it easier for editors to read your work.
✦ Polish Your Poems
Take time to revise your submission. Make sure each line and image serves a purpose and that your work is as clean and compelling as possible.
✦ Submit to Several Places
Submitting to multiple publications increases your chances of acceptance , just be sure to respect each anthology’s rules about simultaneous submissions.
✦ Prepare a Short Bio
Many anthologies ask for a brief bio. Keep it concise and relevant, noting any previous publications or writing experience.
Final Thoughts
Baltimore’s literary scene offers a rich tapestry of poetry publication opportunities , from established anthologies like Welter and the Baltimore Review to community-focused collections like CHARM and themed anthologies such as Yellow Arrow’s Vignette. Whether you’re a student poet, an emerging voice, or an experienced writer seeking wider exposure, there’s likely a Baltimore anthology that’s right for you.
Submitting your work to these publications is more than a chance to be published , it’s a way to connect with a community of writers, share your voice, and contribute to the vibrant literary culture of Baltimore.
Disclaimer: The information regarding these anthologies is a general resource. Readers must independently verify all current submission requirements, including genres and deadlines, on the official press websites. We do not guarantee the accuracy of all details or the successful outcome of any submission.
