The United Kingdom has a rich tradition of poetry and a thriving contemporary scene, nurtured by an array of esteemed poetry magazines. These periodicals are not only a platform for new and established poets but also an excellent resource for poetry enthusiasts. Here, we present the top 10 poetry magazines in the UK, offering a mix of established and emerging voices, ready to captivate your poetic soul.
British poetry magazines play a significant role in preserving the nation's literary heritage and promoting its diverse contemporary voices. They cater to different tastes and styles, from traditional forms to experimental and multimedia poetry. Let's delve into these top 10 magazines, which are not only highly respected but also readily accessible to both readers and aspiring writers.
Established Giants
These larger-than-life poetry magazines have been gracing the literary landscape for decades, earning their stripes as industry staples.
The Poetry Review
The Poetry Review is the bi-monthly magazine of The Poetry Society, showcasing a broad range of contemporary UK and international poetry. It's an ideal starting point for discovering new voices and appreciating well-known poets.
Expect to find in-depth essays, interviews, and book reviews alongside poetry. Its esteemed reputation attracts high-profile contributors, and each issue offers a diverse mix of styles and themes.
Poetry Magazine
Established in 1912, Poetry Magazine is the oldest poetry magazine in the UK. Published by the Poetry Society, it features work by both emerging and established poets, representing a variety of styles and approaches to poetry.
With a readership of over 20,000, this quarterly magazine is a go-to for serious poetry lovers and provides an insight into the UK's thriving poetic scene.
New Kids on the Block
These newer magazines bring fresh perspectives and dynamic content to the UK's poetry scene.
The Rialto
The Rialto, founded in 2002, is a quarterly magazine dedicated to publishing exceptional poems, along with reviews, and the occasional essay or interview. Its distinctive feature is its focus on publishing a portfolio of poems by a single poet in each issue.
This unique approach allows readers to delve deeply into a poet's work and appreciate their style and themes in an extended context.
Magma
Magma, established in 2000, is an annual magazine dedicated to publishing poetry and artwork side by side. Each issue has a different theme, which poets and artists respond to in surprising and stimulating ways.
This innovative approach encourages creative dialogue between poets and artists, producing beautiful and thought-provoking pieces that challenge conventional notions of poetry and its place in the world.
Butcher's Dog
Butcher's Dog, launched in 2010, is a quarterly magazine that publishes contemporary poetry along with occasional essays, interviews, and reviews. It aims to showcase the best new poetry from both the UK and abroad.
Cultural diversity is a key focus, and translators play a crucial role in bringing international voices to its pages.
The Emma Press
The Emma Press, founded in 2012, is known for its striking booklets and pamphlets of poetry. Its magazine, published annually, continues this tradition, presenting a bold and innovative approach to poetry.
The Emma Press is particularly interested in supporting and amplifying marginalized voices, ensuring that the UK poetry scene is diverse and inclusive.
Digital Delights
These online platforms offer immediate access to a wealth of poetry, often with accompanying multimedia content.
The parody
The parody is an online poetry magazine published three times a year. Dedicated to publishing exceptional new poetry, it pairs each poem with an original artwork, creating a unique and engaging reading experience.
The magazine's open-minded approach to poetry means it doesn't shy away from experimentation, and its digital format allows for interactive and multimedia content.
Rune
Rune is a new online poetry magazine launched in 2020. It focuses on publishing underrepresented voices in poetry, giving a platform to marginalized groups such as BAME poets, LGBTQ+ poets, and poets with disabilities.
With a commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, Rune is a digital space where everyone can find a voice and a listen.
Engaging with these top UK poetry magazines is an excellent way to explore the rich and varied contemporary poetry scene. Whether you're a seasoned poetry lover or a newcomer to the genre, these magazines offer a wealth of inspiring, challenging, and enjoyable poetry. So, delve in, explore, and let these words ignite your poetic imagination.