I say this as a poet who has benefitted from the current system, winning awards, graduating from prestigious fellowship programs, and publishing widely.

The change in approach started for me when I had a chapbook reach the final round in a contest held by a notable press, twice. 

Both presses had the same final judge. That final judge rejected me twice in a matter of months.

I have no resentment towards the judge. I resent that I believed my 
art's future dependent on a system's approval.

If you are a poet or other artist reading this, I believe you can create
a life around your art that allows you to create on your own terms.

If you agree, you believe your art will survive

even in if you do not send another submission, or do not apply to another contest, or do not submit another grant request.

Let's explore creative and financial independence.
                                                                                          - geoff