MC-Guide
Content Writing
Website 90: arcpoetry.ca
How Can You Earn Money Writing For “Arcpoetry.ca” Website
This guide shows you, step by step, how a beginner can learn to pitch and sell stories to arcpoetry.ca.
You will learn what arcpoetry.ca wants, how to test your idea, how to write a pitch, and how payment roughly works. You can use this like a small SOP.
Guide: How to Get Published (and Paid) by ARC Poetry Magazine — Step by Step
This guide shows you how to submit poems, pitch poetry-related prose (reviews, essays, interviews), and use ARC’s contests — using the official rules on arcpoetry.ca/submissions and the ARC portal on Submittable.
It is written in simple English for beginners. Treat it like a small SOP: read, prepare, submit, log, repeat — and improve each cycle.
Section 1 · Understand the publication
What ARC is, and how writers usually earn money from it
ARC (Arc Poetry Magazine) is a poetry magazine and platform that publishes poems and poetry-related prose. Your goal is to earn money (or prizes) by getting published by ARC — but the bigger win is building a repeatable writing practice.
Before you write or revise, read ARC’s own description of its taste and mission on their website. Don’t copy their style, but do notice what kinds of poems and voices they highlight.
Your “earning lanes” with ARC normally look like this: (A) standard poetry submissions (publication + honorarium if offered), (B) poetry-prose pitches (reviews, essays, interviews), and (C) contests (prizes + publication). ARC manages many submissions using Submittable, and publishes work on arcpoetry.ca.
Keep these tabs open while you prepare your submission:
- ARC Home — see what the site looks like.
- ARC Submissions — rules, categories, and how to submit.
- ARC Submittable Portal — where many submissions happen.
- ARC Contests Hub — open prizes and contest rules.
If you do only one thing today, do this: read the Submissions page slowly and take notes in a document.
Beginners often submit without reading the magazine. That is like applying for a job without reading the job description.
- Read 10 poems from ARC (start from any issue or sample page you can access).
- Notice: line breaks, music, imagery, energy, and risk.
- Ask: “Would my poem feel at home next to these?”
Use ARC’s own pages to explore their work and tone: arcpoetry.ca.
| Lane | What you submit | How you earn | Best for beginners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard submissions | Poems (often as a set) | Publication + honorarium (if offered) | Yes (most common starting point) |
| Poetry prose | Review / essay / interview pitch | Assignment fee (if accepted) | Yes, if you can write clearly and cite sources |
| Contests | Poem, manuscript, or theme entry | Prize money + publication | Yes, if you follow rules perfectly |
Section 2 · Fit your work
Make your poems “ARC-shaped” without copying anyone
ARC is competitive. That does not mean you need to write “difficult” poems. It means your poems should feel intentional and finished. Editors can tell when a poem is still a draft.
Use this “ARC-shaped” checklist before you submit. Think of it as a friendly quality filter. You can still keep your own voice. The goal is to remove weak craft decisions that block acceptance.
Line energy: do your lines earn their breaks?
Read your poem aloud. If you break lines randomly, it sounds flat. Try this: remove all line breaks and re-break lines where the meaning shifts, where the music changes, or where you want tension.
Quick test: if you can replace your line breaks with normal sentences and nothing changes, you probably need stronger line decisions.
Imagery: can the reader see, hear, smell, touch?
Poetry readers like specificity. Replace “beautiful” with the exact object. Replace “sad” with the physical detail that shows sadness. Use images that only you could write.
Simple revision move: highlight every abstract word (love, pain, freedom, truth). For each, add one concrete image that grounds it.
Voice: does the poem feel like you (not an internet poem)?
Editors read many poems that sound the same. If you used a popular template (Instagram poem style, generic confession, predictable “I feel” statements), revise until the language feels uniquely yours.
Trick: write one paragraph explaining what your poem is trying to do. Then remove any lines that do not support that goal.
Ending: does it land, or does it fade?
Weak endings are a common reason poems get rejected. Avoid endings that only repeat the theme. Aim for an ending that changes the reader’s understanding by one notch.
Fast revision: write 3 different endings (short, image-based, and surprising). Choose the one that feels inevitable and sharp.
Polish: is it proofread and formatted cleanly?
Poetry magazines want professional formatting. Fix spelling. Fix inconsistent punctuation. Keep spacing consistent. Use a readable font and size.
Last check: export to PDF and read the PDF on your phone. You will catch formatting issues quickly.
Does this set make sense together?
If you submit multiple poems, don’t send random leftovers. Make a set that shows range (image, subject, sound) but still feels coherent. Editors often read “as a set,” not only as individual poems.
A simple set formula: (1) one strong “entry” poem, (2) one poem that takes a risk, (3) one poem with a different mood or structure.
| Weak version | Better version | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| “I felt pain in my heart.” | “My ribs were a locked drawer; the key kept turning.” | Concrete image + tension |
| “Nature is beautiful.” | “The lake wore a thin skin of ice, wrinkled like old cellophane.” | Specific sensory detail |
| Ending repeats the theme | Ending changes the meaning | Leaves the reader with a turn |
Section 3 · Submission SOP
How to submit poems via Submittable (step by step, beginner safe)
ARC’s official submission instructions live here: arcpoetry.ca/submissions. Many submissions go through: arcpoetry.submittable.com.
This section gives you a beginner-safe SOP. Follow the official rules first. If any rule below conflicts with the Submissions page, ignore this SOP and follow ARC’s official instructions.
Read the submission category carefully
Go to ARC Submissions. Look for the category you want (poetry submissions, prose pitches, contests, etc.). Write down:
- Open / closed status and any reading periods.
- How many poems they want (single poem vs a set).
- Formatting requirements (PDF, anonymized, etc.).
- Any fees or rules about simultaneous submissions.
Then open the matching form inside Submittable and read the form text again.
Prepare your file (clean, readable, professional)
Most poetry submissions are uploaded as a single file. Common best practice: one PDF that contains your poems (and only what they request).
- Use a simple font (Times New Roman, Garamond, Georgia, or similar).
- Keep titles clear and consistent.
- Use page breaks between poems if needed.
- Save as PDF and re-open it to confirm it looks correct.
If ARC asks for anonymous files, remove your name from the file content and file properties.
Create (or log in to) your Submittable account
Visit ARC Submittable. If you are new, create an account and confirm your email.
Beginner tip: use one email address for all submissions, so you can track responses and receipts easily.
Fill in the form slowly (don’t rush)
Copy your name and contact details carefully. If the form asks for a cover letter, keep it short and polite. ARC editors want the poems, not a long autobiography.
- 1–2 sentences of greeting.
- Any details they specifically request (publication history, location, etc.).
- Thank you line.
If the form requests a bio, write 2–3 lines. Mention 1–2 relevant credits only. If you have none, you can say “I’m an emerging writer.”
Upload the file and preview it
Upload your PDF. Then click preview (if available). Confirm:
- All poems appear in the correct order.
- Spacing and line breaks are intact.
- Your file name is clean (example: Lastname_Firstname_ARC_Poems.pdf).
If you see formatting problems, stop and fix them before submitting.
Submit, save confirmation, and log your submission
After you submit, you should receive confirmation (on-screen and/or by email). Save that confirmation.
Then log your submission in a simple tracker (Google Sheet / Notion / notebook). Track:
- Date submitted
- Category
- Poems included
- Status (received / in-progress / accepted / declined)
- Notes for next time
This tracker is how beginners become consistent submitters. Consistency is how you eventually get published.
Section 4 · Poetry prose
How to pitch reviews, essays, and interviews to ARC
ARC is not only about poem submissions. Many magazines publish poetry prose too: reviews, essays, interviews, craft discussions, and criticism. This can be a strong path to earning because prose is often commissioned.
First, read the official guidance on ARC Submissions to see how ARC wants prose pitches (some magazines prefer pitches first; some allow full drafts; rules can change).
A strong pitch is short and specific. Use this structure:
- Topic: what you want to write about (book / poet / craft issue).
- Angle: your main claim in one sentence.
- Why now: why ARC readers care at this moment.
- Outline: 4–6 bullets showing your sections.
- Length: estimated word count.
- Bio + samples: 1–3 links to past writing.
Editors want to know you can deliver a clean, interesting piece on time.
If you have no prose samples, build them in 7 days:
- Write a 900–1200 word review of a poetry book on your own blog or Medium.
- Write a 700–1000 word craft essay (“How I revise” / “How I use imagery”).
- Write a short interview with a local poet or spoken-word artist.
Even if ARC does not accept your pitch now, these samples help you pitch other journals too.
| Prose type | What editors look for | Beginner trap | Fix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Review | Clear thesis, fair evaluation, quotes used carefully | Only summarizing the book | Make an argument about craft and effect |
| Interview | Good questions, strong edits, respect for subject | Generic questions (“What inspires you?”) | Ask about specific poems, process, decisions |
| Essay / criticism | Original angle, sources, insight, clean structure | Too broad (“poetry today”) | Narrow: one theme, one poet, one craft issue |
What makes an ARC prose pitch “easy to say yes to”
ARC prose slots are limited. Editors want pitches that are clear, realistic, and relevant to poetry readers. Use this small checklist before you pitch:
- Scope: Can you write it in the expected length without rushing or padding?
- Angle: Is your point specific (not “poetry is important”)?
- Access: For interviews, can you actually contact the person and get permission?
- Sources: For essays/criticism, what poems/books/events will you quote or reference?
- Audience: Why will ARC readers care right now?
If you pitch a review, choose a book that is relevant to ARC’s readership and that you can read carefully. A strong review is not a summary. It is an argument about how the book works.
- State your thesis in one sentence (what the book does well or attempts).
- Use 2–4 specific examples (lines, techniques, structural choices).
- Be fair. Criticism should be honest but not cruel.
- Declare conflicts: if you know the author, say so.
Interviews fail when questions are generic. Make questions that show you read the person’s work. Offer a clear format: email interview, live call, or a mix.
- Send 8–12 strong questions (not 30).
- Ask craft questions: decisions, structures, line breaks, revision habits.
- Offer a timeline for replies and editing approval.
- Get permission to publish the final text.
One “safe” prose pitch email (copy/paste)
Subject: Pitch — [Review/Essay/Interview] for ARC: “WORKING TITLE”
Hello ARC Editors,
I’m writing to pitch a [review / essay / interview / column] for ARC.
• Working title: “WORKING TITLE”
• Format: [review / essay / interview]
• Why ARC readers: [1–2 sentences on relevance]
• Angle / thesis: [1 sentence]
• Outline (short):
1) [Section / point]
2) [Section / point]
3) [Section / point]
• Estimated length: [X words]
• Timeline: I can deliver a draft by [date], with revisions within [X days].
About me: [2–3 sentence bio + 1–2 links to samples]
Thank you for considering this pitch.
Sincerely,
YOUR NAME
City, Country
Website / portfolio (optional)Section 5 · Money
How you earn money: honoraria, assignments, and prizes
ARC’s current payment details (honorarium rates, prize amounts, and any fees) are listed on the official pages. Because these details can change, use this guide for the workflow, and always confirm the latest numbers on ARC Submissions and the relevant contest page.
- Honorarium: payment for publishing a poem (if offered in that category).
- Commission / assignment: you pitch prose, editor agrees, you write, you get paid.
- Contest prize: you enter a contest, win or place, and receive prize money and/or publication.
For beginners, the fastest “portfolio gain” is often publication + byline. That byline can help you pitch other journals, workshops, and paid projects.
- One acceptance can lead to more invites and commissions.
- Contests can add credibility even if you don’t win (shortlists matter).
- Prose writing can become repeatable monthly income if you build a review pipeline.
Your best strategy: build a consistent submission calendar, and keep writing new work while you wait.
| What you do | What you get | What to focus on |
|---|---|---|
| Submit poems regularly | Publication chances + possible honorarium | Craft + consistency |
| Pitch reviews / essays | Assignment fee (if accepted) | Clear angle + structure + professionalism |
| Enter contests strategically | Prize + publication + prestige | Rules + best work only |
Section 6 · Contests
How to enter ARC contests smartly (and not waste effort)
ARC contests can be an important path to earning money and recognition. Start at the official hub: arcpoetry.ca/contest.
Each contest has specific rules. The #1 beginner mistake is entering without reading rules carefully. The #2 mistake is entering work that is not your best.
Step 1: Choose the right contest category
On ARC Contests, find a contest that matches what you have:
- Single poem vs a group of poems vs a manuscript
- Theme-specific vs open-topic
- Emerging writer vs open to all
If you are new, start with contests that accept single poems or small sets. Manuscript contests are tougher.
Step 2: Read the rules twice, then read the form text once
Contest rules may include eligibility, formatting, entry fees, anonymity rules, and deadlines. Read the contest page twice. Then open the Submittable form and read the form instructions too: arcpoetry.submittable.com.
A tiny rule mistake can disqualify a strong poem. Avoid that pain.
Step 3: Enter only your top 10% work
Contests are not for practice drafts. Choose the poem(s) that have been revised, tested aloud, and tightened. If you can’t confidently say “this is my best,” revise first.
A practical move: ask one trusted reader to mark confusing lines. Fix those lines before you enter.
Step 4: Keep a contest calendar
Build a simple calendar:
- Contest name
- Deadline
- Fee
- Prize
- What you entered
- Outcome
This prevents “random submitting” and helps you improve strategically.
How to choose the right contest (without wasting money)
Many beginners enter contests randomly and feel discouraged. A better approach is to treat contests like targeted opportunities. Open ARC’s contests hub and decide using three filters:
Filter 1: Your strongest piece matches the category
If a contest is for a single poem, enter your single best poem. If it’s for a manuscript or book, make sure you actually have that level of work ready. Don’t force a weaker piece into a contest just because the deadline is near.
Filter 2: You understand the rules (and you can follow them)
Contest rules may include line limits, anonymized files, entry fees, or specific formatting. Read the contest page twice, then read the Submittable form text once more. Many entries are disqualified for simple rule mistakes.
Filter 3: The prize aligns with your goals
If your goal is publication credit, a contest that publishes winners and finalists may be valuable. If your goal is cash, prize value matters. If your goal is translation credit, use the translation pathway. Pick a contest that moves your career in the direction you want.
If you’re unsure, start with regular submissions first. Contests can be powerful, but they work best when your craft is stable.
Section 7 · Ethics & AI
Ethics: honesty, AI tools, rights, and professional behavior
Poetry publishing is built on trust. Editors trust that your work is original, that your submission is honest, and that you will behave professionally. If you want to earn money as a writer, you must protect your reputation.
- Do not plagiarize lines, structures, or unique images from other poems.
- Do not submit the same poem everywhere if rules forbid it.
- Do not ignore withdrawal rules if your poem is accepted elsewhere.
- Do not lie about publication history in your cover letter.
- Do not send angry emails after rejection.
Rejections are normal. Professional behavior is what keeps doors open.
- Use AI for brainstorming prompts, not for writing your poem for you.
- Use AI to catch spelling issues or suggest alternative phrasing, then choose intentionally.
- Never submit an AI-generated poem as if it is your original craft work.
Your poem should reflect your choices, your ear, and your revision skill. Use tools as helpers, not as the author.
Section 8 · Micro-SOP
Final pre-submit checklist (use this every time)
Use this checklist to submit like a professional. It reduces mistakes, improves your craft, and makes your writing life calmer.
Section 9 · FAQ
Beginner FAQ: common questions about ARC submissions
Section 10 · Resource Library
Links, templates, and a simple “next steps” plan
Use this page like a toolbox. Open what you need, do the task, close the tab, and move on. Beginners improve fastest when they do small actions daily.
If you only bookmark four links, bookmark these.
- Cover letter: “Hello, Please consider these poems for ARC. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Name.”
- Bio: “Name is an emerging poet based in City. Their work appears in X. They are working on Y.”
- Submission log: Date · Market · Category · Poems · Status · Notes.
Keep everything short and professional. Editors want the work, not extra noise.
| Goal | What to do | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Submit poems | Follow current rules, upload via form | Submissions |
| Use Submittable | Login, choose form, upload PDF, confirm | Submittable Portal |
| Enter contests | Pick contest, read rules twice, enter best work | Contests |
| Read ARC | Study published poems to learn taste and craft | ARC Home |
Extra tools that make submitting easier (optional)
You can submit to ARC with nothing more than a PDF and an email address. But if you want to build a long-term writing practice, these tools can help you stay organized and find more markets:
- Submittable — the submission system ARC uses for many forms.
- Submittable Help Center — fixes common upload/account issues.
- Poets & Writers — broad info about literary publishing and opportunities.
- Duotrope — database for markets (paid subscription).
- The Submission Grinder — market tracking tool (free) used by many writers.
Rights, payment, and professionalism (beginner notes)
If ARC accepts your work, you may receive an agreement that explains payment, publication rights, and contributor expectations. Read it carefully. If you do not understand a clause, ask a polite question before signing. This is normal. Editors would rather clarify than deal with confusion later.
Also remember: never submit work you do not have the rights to publish. If you are translating, confirm permissions as required by the contest/category. If you are quoting poems or books in a review/essay, quote responsibly and keep excerpts brief.
Your next 7 days (tiny action plan)
If you want a simple plan you can follow without overthinking, do this:
- Day 1: Read the Submissions page and write down the current rules for your category.
- Day 2: Read 10 poems from ARC (use ARC).
- Day 3: Choose 3 poems of yours and run the scorecard in Section 2.
- Day 4: Revise the weakest parts (especially openings and endings).
- Day 5: Format your set into one clean PDF and proof it on phone + laptop.
- Day 6: Submit via Submittable if the window is open.
- Day 7: Update your submission log and start drafting your next poem.
That’s it. Small loops beat big plans. Repeat monthly and you will improve quickly.