Hey! I'm a high school student who loves writing poetry, and I've been thinking about entering some poetry competitions. I'm curious about how one goes about finding these competitions, especially those that are reputable and worth entering. Also, what are some of the key things judges look for? I'd appreciate any strategies or tips from those who have experience, especially when it comes to standing out among other talented writers. Thanks so much!
Sure, happy to offer some advice on this!
Finding Poetry Contests: Firstly, check with your local library, community center, or school. Many times, they'll either sponsor their contests or know of local and regional contests that might be of interest. If you're looking to branch out nationally or even internationally, some reputable sources where you can seek contests include national writing organizations and literary magazines. Measure Press' website compiles a good list of poetry contests.
What Judges Look For: While there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to this--since every competition has its judges and criteria, here are some key things that many judges look for:
1. Originality: Your work should feel fresh and new, not only in the ideas it explores but also in the way these ideas are presented. Avoid cliches and overused metaphors.
2. Technical expertise: Using figurative language, meter, and rhyme effectively can showcase your technical skill. Attention to punctuation, grammar, line breaks, and stanza formation is also essential.
3. Emotion and Impact: Your piece should elicit emotion and provoke thought. Good poetry often leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
Strategies for Standing Out:
1. Show, Don't Tell: Instead of telling the reader how to feel, show them through rich imagery and powerful metaphors.
2. Revise Rigorously: Writing is re-writing. Spend lots of time refining and polishing your poem until every word and line is exactly where it should be.
3. Unique Perspective: Offer a new way of looking at a familiar concept or situation. This can make even the most commonplace subject matter seem fresh.
Lastly, remember that the most important aspect of entering these contests is expressing your thoughts and embracing the process of creating, rather than solely focusing on winning. Best of luck with your poetry submissions!
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