Unless it's a theme-specific type journal (and even then sometimes), I find that locating prospective places to submit poetry is generally more difficult than with fiction. Poetry submission guidelines in general mags use a lot of phrases that are exceptionally vague and that anyone can attribute to her poetry. They talk about things like stirring imagery, skillful use of language, resonating with readers, giving something to think about, etc., etc., and items even more vague/general than that.
I also find that "browsing the journals" (if you have the time, since even time to focus on your own writing can be so limited) can also make you come up empty or nearly so as to "what they might publish." That bit is a tad easier when browsing something like a fiction genre journal. Poems in a volume can be all so very different from each other.
I know there's the school that urges us to just send your poems everywhere and see if you get a hit. Good if this has worked well for you but even submitting for each target takes some time and carefulness, though. It is also difficult if you work in many genres and need the work time for them also. I prefer to submit more "thoughtfully" right now with each poem (not with a negative connotation intended here for those who choose a different way).
I have this dilemma mostly with the general type mags (either poetry journals or other pubs that include poetry).
So, aside from themed mags/issues or form-specific ones, how do you decide on which "general" poetry journal to target for a poem?
I also find that "browsing the journals" (if you have the time, since even time to focus on your own writing can be so limited) can also make you come up empty or nearly so as to "what they might publish." That bit is a tad easier when browsing something like a fiction genre journal. Poems in a volume can be all so very different from each other.
I know there's the school that urges us to just send your poems everywhere and see if you get a hit. Good if this has worked well for you but even submitting for each target takes some time and carefulness, though. It is also difficult if you work in many genres and need the work time for them also. I prefer to submit more "thoughtfully" right now with each poem (not with a negative connotation intended here for those who choose a different way).
I have this dilemma mostly with the general type mags (either poetry journals or other pubs that include poetry).
So, aside from themed mags/issues or form-specific ones, how do you decide on which "general" poetry journal to target for a poem?