Literary Journal

Verses From The Underground

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About the magazine

Verses From The Underground is a literary and arts organization rooted in the tradition of independent publishing and grassroots cultural expression. Founded to amplify voices that exist outside mainstream circuits, it operates as both a platform and a community for poets, writers, and visual artists whose work engages with raw, unfiltered perspectives. Its ethos is built on accessibility and experimentation, prioritizing authenticity over polish and fostering a space where emerging and underrepresented creators can find an audience without compromising their vision.

Editorial focus

Verses From The Underground is a free monthly poetry publication based in Philadelphia. The publication stands for the promotion of good quality, accessible poetry. Verses aims to be a voice for the poetic underground, regardless of topic, style, or technique—as long as the poems are good. The current issue is always free and exclusively physical. Each monthly Issue of Verses is made up of submissions (the editors are always accepting and reviewing).

Poetry

Submitting your work

Reading periodJan 1 to Dec 31

Reading feeNo

PaymentContributor copies only

Response timeLess than 3 months

Simultaneous submissionsYes

Unsolicited submissionsYes

Artists should approach Verses From The Underground with work that is honest, risk-taking, and unconcerned with commercial trends. The organization values directness and originality over conventional literary or artistic credentials. Before submitting, review past publications to understand the aesthetic range, and ensure your submission aligns with the spirit of underground expression. Simultaneous submissions are generally acceptable, but personalized cover letters that demonstrate familiarity with the press's mission are appreciated. Response times may vary due to volunteer staffing, so patience is advised.

Submissions are open to anyone, and accepted poems are those that display a love of poetry for poetry’s sake.

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

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