Poet Lore magazine is the oldest continuously published poetry magazine in the United States. It was established in 1889. I’ve been one of the editors since 2002. Soon Poet Lore will be celebrating its 120th birthday. Editing a magazine is what you do on Labor Day. I don’t have the day off. On my desk are several packets of submissions. On the evening of September 24th, I will sit down with my fellow editor Jody Bolz and we will select work for our spring 2009 issue. A typical meeting lasts from 7 to 10 p.m. We read poems aloud, we laugh, we attempt to rewrite poems or debate how to reject the work of people we know. Is this work or fun?
Editing a magazine keeps your eye and ear sharp. I try to move beyond the work I feel comfortable with. I try to help edit a magazine where all writers will have space and a place. Recently I told Jody I thought we should attempt to publish more long poems. Jody Bolz is an excellent editor. It’s amazing how much I keep learning about poetry from her. It’s important to be a student of poetry even if you teach somewhere.
When I travel around the country I often meet poets I’ve published. At AWP conferences, wandering poets will visit the Poet Lore table and share smiles and thanks. Just a few kind words from a person you’ve published makes it easier to overlook the time spent away from your own work. When I read a letter from someone in prison that contributed to Poet Lore, I know how powerful poetry really is. I know that as an editor I’ve given someone hope, respect, and maybe a slice of freedom. I define myself as a literary activist. Editing a magazine is a service to other writers. In a small way it helps to build what I believe is the Beloved Community. How could one love without poetry? A first line is nothing but a kiss.
Here is a link to the new Poet Lore website: www.poetlore.com
We keep trying to publish the best American poetry too.