Introduction to PostPoems
PostPoems is a popular online community and website where poets and poetry lovers can share, discuss and find poetry. Launched in 1999, PostPoems (https://www.postpoems.org/) has grown to become one of the largest online poetry sites on the internet with thousands of active members. The site provides a platform for poets to post their poems, receive feedback from other members, participate in discussion forums and poetry challenges. Several features differentiate PostPoems from other poetry websites and make it a unique space for poets.
One of the key defining aspects of PostPoems is that it focuses exclusively on poetry. While many social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter also host poetry content, PostPoems is dedicated only to poetry. This specialized focus allows it to cultivate a community of passionate poetry enthusiasts. The site’s front page clearly displays recently posted poems to attract readers. Various categories make it easy to browse poetry by theme, genre or individual poets.
PostPoems also emphasizes interaction between members through comments on poems. Readers can provide constructive feedback and enter discussions to help poets refine their craft. Poets gain valuable peer reviews to improve their future work. A strong sense of community has developed over the years with long-time members supporting newer poets. Events like monthly poetry challenges encourage participation and discovery of fresh voices.
Poetry Services Offered
While the primary purpose of PostPoems is as a platform for sharing work, it also offers some paid poetry services and tools to further assist poets. Some of the key services available include:
Poetry Critique Service: For a small fee, established poets and site moderators will provide a detailed, multi-paragraph critique and feedback on submitted poems. This helps poets identify strengths and areas for development from an experienced perspective.
Promotional Opportunities: Poets can pay to be featured in a spotlight, have their work posted on the front page carousel or take part in a sponsored challenge. This raises the visibility of their profile and poems among PostPoems’ large reader base.
Contest Entries: Numerous periodic contests are held on different themes. While entry is free, winning poems may receive cash or other prizes. This acts as extra motivation for poets.
Author Page: For a one-time fee, poets can create an extended author page displaying their full portfolio and biography. This provides better discoverability for readers.
The Poet’s Market Guide: A digital book available for purchase offers tips on marketing poetry, publishing options, grants/awards to apply for and more. It guides poets seeking to expand their audience.
Manuscript Evaluation: For a fixed cost, a team will provide a comprehensive 10+ page manuscript assessment with professional editorial feedback on a full collection. This service is aimed at poets aspiring to publish.
While use of the core site functions like posting, commenting etc. remains free, these paid tools and services are optional ways for poets to get additional assistance in strengthening their craft. The reasonable pricing makes them accessible to both hobbyist and serious poets alike.
Reviews and Testimonials
Based on feedback available online, PostPoems has overwhelmingly positive reviews from the poetry community for the value it provides. On its testimonials page, several member poets share how the feedback and promotion opportunities through the site have helped advance their careers. Some highlights:
Renowned poet Marge Piercy wrote that she “discovered new talents on PostPoems and has seen unknown writers blossom into important voices.”
American poet David Watts said PostPoems is “democratic and open-hearted” in fostering new artistic voices and appreciated the critiques improving his work.
Canadian poet Rebecca Lilly found the community enthusiasm inspiring and credits features like contests for honing her skills.
Many poets mention how engagement on PostPoems led to publications, readings and deeper connections with other literary artists.
Reviews on third party websites are equally glowing. Common positive points include the large, active user base; excellent filtering options to find poems; friendly, helpful members and administrators; high quality poetry across genres. While some note the dated interface, overall the feedback emphasizes how PostPoems has remained a valuable hub for serious poetry for over two decades.
Conclusion
As one of the oldest continuously running online poetry communities, PostPoems has succeeded due to its dedicated focus on the art form. The combination of free and paid features provides opportunities for both casual and professional poets. Testimonials show how the engaging community environment and various creative services have tangibly helped members strengthen their writing and careers over the years. For lovers and creators of poetry, PostPoems continues to be a rich resource worth exploring.