Poems submitted to thematic poetry anthologies must clearly reflect the theme of the anthology. Poets must remember that their contribution is merely a part of a larger concept; interesting, engaging work might still be discarded if it isn't thematically relevant to the anthology's aim. Anthology themes are wide and varied; you might have to write a brand new poem in order to meet the submission guidelines. Sample poetry anthology subjects include marriage, parenting, dating, as well as issues of race, religion, class and wealth.
Some poetry anthologies have specific requirements for the style, length and language of the poem. Poems may be required to rhyme, or fit a certain meter or stanza pattern; strict editors might require that poems contain no cursing or otherwise offensive language (depending on their target audience). Other anthologies accept free style poems, without censoring language, length or form. Read submission guidelines carefully in order to submit exactly what they're asking for.
Pay close attention to the logistics included in the writer guidelines for the specific anthology to which you wish to contribute. Word count, font, the number of pages you can submit and the number of poems you're allowed to hand in should all be reviewed carefully. Also notice how your personal information is to be presented; some anthologies ask that you keep your name and contact information separate from the poem, so that your work can be reviewed and selected anonymously; other editors might ask that you include a name, picture and a bit of information about yourself to be published with your piece.
You must have your poems in by the stated deadline in order to be considered for inclusion in a thematic poetry anthology. Some anthologies charge a reading fee; if this is the case, note whether the money should be mailed as cash or check, or submitted as a credit card payment online.
In case your work isn't accepted, some anthology editors ask that you send a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your submission, so your work can be returned to you. Occasionally, editors send notes about your work, indicating what did and didn't work for them.