Poetry FAQ: A Young Poet's Guide To Poetry and Poetry Writing

QUESTION:
Is it ok for me to post my poems online? What if someone steals my poetry?

Though chances of someone wanting to steal your poem is low, there IS a chance...which is why some writers never post their pieces online.

You should also be aware that some editors consider any piece posted online as being "published." If a magazine asks for First Publication Rights, therefore, the editor may decline your poem because he or she considers it already being published.

You can find out more about rights and copyright in Moira Allen's excellent article, Understanding Rights and Copyright.

Useful related resources:

Protect your writing from plagiarism by Moira Allen.

Protecting your work against electronic pirates by Charles Petit.

What to do when your words are stolen by Moira Allen