In order for poetry to fit genuinely under the cloud of poiesis as attributed of God in Genesis 1-3, poetry at its finest exhibits the following traits: it tells the truth, even if under the wings of a myth; it reproduces the good and culminates in something very good; it stands with a living, breathing structure. These traits may be found in other artistic forms (particularly of the literary sort), but for our sense of poetry they are paramount to the glory of countless classic poems from cultures across the world and throughout history. The catharsis that is often associated with the poetic craft is here tempered by the art of prayer and the discipline of contemplation. A mere regurgitation of impassioned words will not find success here. Instead, we seek poetry that is introspective, curious, and lovely, even in the midst of struggle, doubt, darkness, violence, and agony. Help us to feel our wounds heal.
While Macrina is a magazine for Christian philosophical reflection, we do not require Christian or philosophical themes be made explicit in poetry we publish. Devotion is the crowning achievement of philosophy, but we are not looking merely for devotional poetry. We tend to prefer poetry with formal structure, but we are not, as a rule, opposed to free verse submissions. Their success hinges upon some exemplification of how the free verse goes beyond and honors formality, rather than plainly rejecting it.
Up to four poems may be included in a single submission, but we ask that you wait six months before submitting again. We do not publish previously published poems, including work posted on blogs or social media.
