Trying to get your work published can feel like wandering in a maze. If you're running into one dead end after another, not sure which way to turn, this workshop can demystify the process and help you reach your destination—publication.

Mapping the Maze is an online workshop for emerging writers who are ready to make a plan for getting their work published. Over two days, writers will receive guidance from trusted professionals to help them navigate the literary marketplace and take their next steps with confidence.

We recognize that a poet's publishing journey is different in many ways from that of a prose writer. This edition of Mapping the Maze is designed with poets in mind.

In this workshop, writers will:

Learn to identify the right publications for their work
Discover tools to research literary magazines, presses, and contests
Receive guidance on preparing and submitting work
Interact with industry professionals during Q&A
Gain exposure to diverse publishing paths and experiences
Leave with a clearer understanding of the publishing industry to support their personal goals

This class is for writers who are:

Ready to begin submitting work for publication
Seeking foundational knowledge of the publishing process
Curious about building and sustaining a literary life
Interested in learning from industry professionals
Looking to grow their literary network

To ensure equitable access to classes for writers who might not otherwise be able to cover registration fees, a limited number of fee waivers are available. We encourage applications from writers traditionally underrepresented in publishing, including, but not limited to, writers who identify as Black, Indigenous, persons of color, immigrants, writers with disabilities, LGBTQ+ writers, writers residing outside of major cities, and writers who do not have an MFA or equivalent degree. Please submit fee waiver applications no later than two weeks before the first session of the workshop. If granted a fee waiver, you will be responsible for a nominal $25 fee. Apply for a fee waiver!

Below is an overview of the workshop, which will span two days:

Monday, November 16, 2026

6:00-7:00 p.m. EST | Welcome & Publishing 101 Q&A w/India Lena González (senior editor, Poets & Writers)
A Poets & Writers editor will introduce essential P&W resources and answer questions related to our Publishing 101 video, which participants will be asked to watch prior to the workshop.

7:00-8:00 p.m. EST | Submitting to Literary Magazines & Journals w/Ronald Spatz (editor-in-chief and co-founding editor, Alaska Quarterly Review)
A literary magazine editor will share their publication’s submissions processes, what they are looking for in new work, and other opportunities. They will also discuss the editorial process, what happens once a work is accepted, and share tips for making sure your submission has the best chance of getting published.

Wednesday, November 18, 2026

6:00-7:00 p.m. EST | Working With a Small Press w/Hannah Matheson (associate director and senior editor, Four Way Books)
A publisher will explore what makes a chapbook and its value for poets, and share information about their press, including the submission process, contests, and prizes; and what advice they have for a writer who is still finding their way along the publishing journey.

7:00-8:00 p.m. EST | The Writer’s Journey w/Michelle Peñaloza (author, All The Words I Can Remember Are Poems)
An acclaimed author will share stories about their literary careers—how they got started and their experience in the publishing world—and offer advice for aspiring and early-career writers.

Each session will include a Q&A period with the featured presenters. Writers will also be given worksheets with resources, reflective questions, and activities to aid progress well beyond the workshop.

View all classes.

Mapping the Maze for Poets: Chart Your Path to Publication (Fee Waiver)