The Society of Classical Poets (SCP) proudly announces its annual International Poetry Competition, offering poets worldwide a platform to showcase their talent and win prestigious awards. Inspired by John Milton’s tribute to Shakespeare, “Thou, in our wonder and astonishment, Hast built thyself a livelong monument,” this competition encourages poets to craft their own enduring legacies.
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Competition Details and Guidelines
This competition welcomes poems on any theme, adhering to classical poetic principles. While rhyme and other traditional techniques are encouraged, the core requirement is meter. This focus on structured verse aligns with the SCP’s mission to promote and celebrate classical poetry.
Submission Guidelines
- Poem Length: Submit one to three poems totaling no more than 108 lines.
- Format: Submit your poems as a Word file or within the email body.
- Subject Line: Use “Poetry Contest Submission” in your email subject line.
- Fee: A $20 submission fee includes a free subscription to the SCP’s monthly e-Newsletter. You may submit up to three separate entries (up to $60).
- Submission Process: First, pay the submission fee here, then email your poems to [email protected]. Alternatively, mail a check payable to the Society of Classical Poets. Contact [email protected] for the mailing address.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- Submission Period: September 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024 (11:59 p.m. EST).
- Winner Announcement: February 1, 2025, via the SCP e-Newsletter and website.
Prizes and Recognition
The competition offers enticing prizes and significant recognition:
- First Prize: $2,000 and publication on the SCP website and in the Journal (https://classicalpoets.org/journal/).
High School Students
A separate High School competition offers a $200 prize. Find details here.
Judging Panel
A distinguished panel of poets and literary experts will judge the competition. Learn more about the judges here.
Eligibility and Further Information
- Open to All: Poets from all countries and backgrounds are welcome to participate. International winners will need a PayPal account to receive prize money.
- Poem Originality: Poems should be written in 2024 but can be previously published.
- Simultaneous Submissions: Accepted.
- Previous Winners: Past First Place winners and SCP executive staff are ineligible.
- Membership: Not required to participate.
- Rights and Ownership: Poets retain ownership of their work. By submitting, you grant the SCP permission to publish winning and honorable mention poems on their website, in the Journal, and in promotional materials. This does not restrict poets from publishing their work elsewhere.
Resources for Aspiring Poets
For those new to metrical verse, the SCP provides helpful resources:
- Beginner’s Guide to Iambic Meter: https://classicalpoets.org/2012/09/07/writing-classical-poetry-is-easy-technically/
- Comprehensive Guide to Meter: https://classicalpoets.org/2016/01/29/how-to-write-poetry-with-meter/
- Guide to Poetry Forms: https://classicalpoets.org/2021/05/31/teaching-classical-poetry-a-simple-guide-for-educators/
Past Competition Winners
Explore the works of previous winners for inspiration: 2023, 2022, 2021 and earlier years linked on the SCP website.
Join the Tradition
The SCP International Poetry Competition provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the rich tapestry of classical poetry. Submit your best work and let your words bloom.