Top Poetry Anthologies Accepting Submissions in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city brimming with creativity, culture, and diversity, making it a hub for writers and poets from all walks of life. For poets seeking to share their work and gain wider recognition, submitting to literary anthologies can be an effective way to reach audiences and build a professional portfolio. Poetry anthologies not only provide an opportunity for publication but also create a community of writers who inspire, challenge, and celebrate each other’s voices.

In this guide, we explore some of the top poetry anthologies currently accepting submissions in Los Angeles, along with tips for preparing your manuscript, understanding submission guidelines, and enhancing your chances of being selected.

Why Submit to Poetry Anthologies?

Before exploring specific anthologies, it’s important to understand why submitting your work can be a powerful step in your poetry journey.

1. Visibility and Recognition: Getting published in an anthology gives your poetry a wider audience, including editors, literary critics, and readers who may never have encountered your work otherwise. It helps your poems stand out in a crowded literary landscape.
2. Professional Credibility: Publication in a well-known anthology adds authority to your writing portfolio. This credibility can open doors for future opportunities, such as grants, residencies, teaching positions, or even book publishing deals. It demonstrates your ability to meet editorial standards and successfully navigate the publishing process.
3. Community Engagement: Many anthologies actively encourage poets to participate in readings, workshops, and literary events. This not only fosters meaningful connections with other writers and mentors but also provides a platform to practice performance, marketing, and promoting your work.
4. Genre Exploration and Diversity: Anthologies often showcase a mix of poetry genres—from narrative and lyrical to experimental and spoken word. This allows your work to be appreciated within different styles while also connecting with readers who enjoy diverse voices.
5. Editing, Publishing, and Marketing Skills: Submitting to an anthology teaches you how to polish your work through careful editing and adapt your poems to meet professional publishing standards. Many anthologies provide feedback or editorial guidance, helping you refine your craft. Additionally, some anthologies actively support marketing your published work through readings, online promotion, and social media campaigns, expanding your reach as a poet.

Los Angeles-based anthologies are especially known for embracing multicultural perspectives and experimental forms, reflecting the city’s vibrant creative identity. They provide poets with a valuable opportunity not only to publish but also to learn about editing, publishing, and marketing in a professional context.

Top Poetry Anthologies in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to a rich and varied poetry scene. Below are some of the top anthologies currently accepting submissions. Each anthology has its own focus, style, and editorial expectations, so researching them carefully and tailoring your submissions is key. Submitting to these anthologies also gives insight into the publishing process, from editing and layout to marketing and distribution, while helping you find your genre niche.

1. City of Angels Poetry Collection

The City of Angels Poetry Collection is one of Los Angeles’ most respected anthologies. It focuses on capturing the essence of life in the city, from urban landscapes to personal experiences of its residents.

Submission Guidelines:

• Open to poets of all backgrounds
• Submissions accepted year-round
• Maximum of five poems per poet
• Poems should not exceed 40 lines each
• Previously published work may be considered, but rights must be clearly indicated

Why Submit:
The anthology celebrates diversity and encourages innovative poetic forms. It is ideal for poets exploring urban life, social issues, and cultural identity.

2. The Los Angeles Literary Review Anthology

This anthology is curated by the Los Angeles Literary Review, an organization dedicated to nurturing emerging voices in poetry and prose. It emphasizes thematic cohesion and often includes essays and commentary alongside poetry.

Submission Guidelines:

• Annual submission period: January to April
• Limit of three poems per submission
• Works should be in English; translations accepted with original text included
• Poets may submit previously published work if rights are retained

Why Submit:
It’s a prestigious anthology that offers a platform for both new and established poets, with an emphasis on polished, thought-provoking work.

3. West Coast Voices: Los Angeles Edition

West Coast Voices focuses on capturing the voices and stories of the western United States, with a particular emphasis on Southern California. This anthology often highlights experimental and contemporary poetry styles.

Submission Guidelines:

• Open submission period: March to June
• Accepts up to five poems per writer
• Poems must be original and unpublished in print
• Word count: up to 500 words per poem

Why Submit:
If your poetry explores identity, cultural landscapes, or contemporary social themes, West Coast Voices provides an ideal platform for reaching an engaged readership.

4. LA Underground Poetry Anthology

This anthology is devoted to alternative, edgy, and avant-garde poetry. It embraces nontraditional forms, including visual poetry, spoken word adaptations, and hybrid genres.

Submission Guidelines:

• Open year-round for submissions
• Accepts up to ten pages of poetry or creative text
• Multimedia submissions (audio/video) encouraged for online edition
• Emphasis on originality and experimentation

Why Submit:
For poets who challenge conventional forms and want their work to reach an audience that appreciates innovation, the LA Underground Poetry Anthology is an excellent choice.

5. SoCal Women Poets Anthology

Dedicated to amplifying women’s voices, this anthology celebrates poetry from female, nonbinary, and gender-expansive writers in Southern California.

Submission Guidelines:

• Submission period: February to May
• Three poems per writer, maximum
• Poems must be original and unpublished in other anthologies
• Word limit: 200 lines total

Why Submit:
The anthology is not only a platform for visibility but also fosters networking opportunities through readings, panels, and workshops specifically designed to support women and gender-expansive poets.

6. LA Rising Voices: Emerging Poets Anthology

Focused on emerging poets under the age of 30, LA Rising Voices provides a springboard for young writers looking to gain recognition and feedback from experienced editors.

Submission Guidelines:

• Submissions accepted from January to March annually
• Limit of five poems per poet
• Poems should be under 50 lines
• Open to English-language submissions only

Why Submit:
The anthology is ideal for developing poets seeking guidance, exposure, and the chance to be included in local readings and workshops.

7. The Downtown Literary Anthology

Celebrating the historic and contemporary literary scene of Downtown Los Angeles, this anthology captures the spirit of a city in transition, blending poetry, prose, and visual storytelling.

Submission Guidelines:

• Annual open call, typically from May to August
• Accepts up to four poems or one short prose piece
• Works should focus on urban life, community, or culture
• Previously published work may be considered with rights retained

Why Submit:
The Downtown Literary Anthology is well-known for its emphasis on storytelling through poetry, making it suitable for poets interested in narrative-driven or socially conscious work.

8. LA Multicultural Voices

As the name suggests, LA Multicultural Voices highlights poetry from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. It aims to give a platform to voices often underrepresented in mainstream publishing.

Submission Guidelines:

• Submissions open throughout the year
• Three to five poems per writer
• Original, unpublished work only
• Includes bilingual and translated poetry

Why Submit:
Poets from multicultural backgrounds or those exploring themes of heritage, identity, and migration will find this anthology particularly welcoming.

9. CaliforniaDreamin’g: LA Poetry Series

This anthology series takes inspiration from the landscapes, dreams, and realities of life in California, blending personal reflection with social commentary.

Submission Guidelines:

• Open submissions: February to May
• Maximum of five poems per submission
• Poems should be no longer than 60 lines
• Previously published work considered whether permission was obtained

Why Submit:
It’s an excellent platform for both established and emerging poets seeking exposure to a regional audience while contributing to the cultural tapestry of California literature.

10. Los Angeles Spoken Word Anthology

This anthology bridges the gap between written poetry and performance. It includes both textual poems and recorded performances, celebrating the rich spoken word culture in Los Angeles.

Submission Guidelines:

• Year-round submissions accepted
• Up to six poems or a 10-minute spoken word performance
• Recordings should be high-quality audio or video files
• Original, unpublished work preferred

Why Submit:
If you are a performance poet or enjoy the dynamic energy of spoken word, this anthology gives your work a platform to reach audiences both online and in live readings.

Tips for Successful Submissions

Submitting your poetry to anthologies is more than just sending files. Thoughtful preparation increases your chances of acceptance:

1. Read Past Editions: Understand the anthology’s style, themes, and tone. Tailor your submission to align with their vision.
2. Follow Guidelines Carefully: Pay attention to word count, format, and submission deadlines. Failure to follow instructions is a common reason for rejection.
3. Edit and Proofread: Ensure your work is polished. Consider peer feedback or professional editing before submission.
4. Include a Strong Cover Letter: A concise, professional cover letter can make your submission stand out. Include a brief bio and context for your poems if relevant.
5. Submit Multiple Poems: If allowed, provide a selection that showcases your range and versatility.

Preparing Your Manuscript

Most anthologies prefer digital submissions in PDF or Word format. Proper formatting is key:

• Use a readable font (e.g., Times New Roman, 12pt)
• Single-spaced or 1.5 spacing
• Include page numbers and your name in headers or footers
• Separate poems with clear titles

A well-prepared manuscript demonstrates professionalism and respect for the editor’s time.

The Benefits of Anthology Publication in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a competitive but supportive literary environment. Publication in local anthologies provides:

• Networking Opportunities: Many anthologies host launch events, workshops, and readings.
• Portfolio Development: A growing list of publications enhances your literary profile.
• Cultural Engagement: Publishing locally helps poets contribute to the city’s artistic narrative.
• Recognition: Being selected for respected anthologies adds credibility and can lead to further opportunities.

Conclusion

Submitting to poetry anthologies in Los Angeles offers poets a unique opportunity to gain visibility, connect with a diverse community, and contribute to the city’s vibrant literary landscape. From established collections like the City of Angels Poetry Collection to innovative platforms like the LA Underground Poetry Anthology, there are numerous opportunities for poets of all styles and experiences. By carefully selecting anthologies, following submission guidelines, and presenting polished work, you can maximize your chances of success. Whether you are a seasoned poet or just starting, anthology publication is an essential step in building your writing career.