This is the horrid reality of my journey with submissions. So far, I've submitted to a couple of places that haven't asked for that requirement. But there are places that I REALLY want to submit to, but are asking for less pages. I've looked over my manuscript a million times and even if I eliminate one or two poems, I would still be over the requirements.
Writers, this is my question to you: Would you chop down your manuscript just to shop it around to small presses or contests? Would you do it if you were aiming for a bigger press? Are you willing to sacrifice your vision just to be published no matter what? (I guess that was more than a question).
You can leave your opinion in the comments section. Or you can take this lovely poll below. Either way, your input would be appreciated.