STAGE: The Broken Spine’s New Anthology Invites Poets to Translate Live Art into Verse

Submission Guidelines for STAGE: Poetry Written in Response to Live Art

Project Overview:
STAGE invites poets to submit original and previously unpublished, non-rhyming, narrative, free-verse poetry that vividly captures the essence of living in the moment. We’re seeking works that articulate the electrifying experience of a performance, whether it be the intensity of a soliloquy, the surprise of a comedic reveal, the emotional pull of a crying guitar, the powerful rhetoric of a poet, or the dynamic theatre of dance.

Submissions:

• Poem Requirements: Each poem should be a unique reflection of a live art experience, immersing the reader in the moment. Inventive use of language is encouraged to convey soulful energy and emotional depth.
• Number of Submissions: A maximum of two poems per poet.
• Performance Details: Alongside your poem, include the date and location of the performance, as well as the name of the artist.

Entry Fee:

• There is a modest entry fee of £3 per poet to cover administrative costs payable via PayPal.

Author Copies:

• Contributors will have the opportunity to purchase author copies at 50% off the cover price.

Submission Period:

• We will be accepting submissions throughout the month of February.

Publication Timeline:

• The anthology is planned for release in early summer, although this date is subject to change.

How to Submit:

• Poems can be submitted here.

Looking for:

• Surprise us with your creative flair and language use. We want to feel tied in knots, brimming with the energy and emotion you experienced. Let your words transport us right into the heart of your live art encounter.

Note to Poets:

This is your canvas to express how live art has touched your soul. Paint with your words, and let us feel the pulse of the performance through your verse. We eagerly await your submissions and the chance to share your unique perspectives with our readers.

About the Editor: Alan Parry

Alan Parry: Founding Editor, Poet, and English Lecturer

As the founding editor of The Broken Spine, Alan Parry brings his rich experience and passion for literature to the forefront of this project. Alan, a distinguished poet and Lecturer in English, has dedicated his career to exploring the depths of literary expression and nurturing emerging talent.

His background in English Literature, with an MA Popular Culture and a BA English Literature, has equipped him with a nuanced understanding of the literary world. His work not only reflects his profound love for poetry and flash fiction but also embodies his commitment to inclusivity and the democratisation of the arts.

Alan’s editorship is marked by his keen eye for quality and his ability to resonate with both readers and writers alike. His guidance in STAGE: Poetry Written in Response to Live Art is a testament to his dedication to celebrating the vibrant intersection of poetry and live performance.

As a lecturer, Alan not only imparts knowledge but also inspires his students to find their own voice. His leadership at The Broken Spine is instrumental in crafting a platform that honours creativity, diversity, and the transformative power of words.