The Society of Classical Poets (SCP) announced the winners of its 11th annual International Poetry Competition, showcasing the enduring power and beauty of classical English poetry. Judged by esteemed poets Joseph S. Salemi, James Sale, and Evan Mantyk, the competition highlighted exceptional works penned in 2022, adhering to the rich traditions of formal verse. This prestigious competition celebrates poets who masterfully wield rhythm, rhyme, and meter, breathing new life into timeless forms.
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First Place: Sally Cook’s Triumph
Sally Cook, of New York, claimed the coveted first-place prize of $2,000. Her winning poems, “Holy Picnic,” “Erasing Me,” and “What Geese May Teach,” exemplify her command of language and imagery. Cook’s work resonates with a depth of emotion and a keen observation of the world, capturing both the profound and the everyday in elegant verse. Her poems invite readers to explore themes of spirituality, personal identity, and the wisdom found in nature.
Second and Third Place: Recognizing Excellence
The second-place honors were shared by Andrew Benson Brown of Missouri, for his poems “Lightning Ben” and “John Adams in Heaven,” and Cynthia Erlandson of Michigan, for “Where Ever-present Joy Knows Naught of Time” and “Hanging Harps.” Brown’s historically-inspired works explore themes of American heritage and legacy, while Erlandson’s poems delve into the spiritual and emotional landscapes of human experience.
Third place recognized a diverse array of talent, including David Watt (Australia), Brian Yapko (New Mexico), Monika Cooper (USA), Joshua C. Frank (Texas), Peter Lillios (New York), Shaun C. Duncan (Australia), and Charles Southerland (Arkansas). Their poems span a wide range of subjects, from personal reflections to social commentary, demonstrating the versatility and enduring relevance of classical forms.
Fourth Place and Honorable Mentions: A Wealth of Poetic Voices
The competition also acknowledged the achievements of fourth-place winners and numerous honorable mentions. These poets, hailing from across the globe, contribute to a vibrant tapestry of poetic expression. Their works explore diverse themes, including love, loss, nature, and the human condition, further enriching the landscape of contemporary classical poetry. From Anna J. Arredondo’s introspective “This Side of Eternity” to Paul Buchheit’s evocative “Moments from Dante’s Inferno,” these poets demonstrate the continued power of poetry to illuminate and inspire.
The honorable mentions represent a global community of poets, with works ranging from Pippa Kay’s evocative “Swimming with Dreams and Memory” to Maxim D. Shrayer’s poignant “The Linguist.” These poets offer a diverse range of perspectives and styles, united by their commitment to the craft of classical verse.
The Enduring Legacy of Classical Poetry
The SCP International Poetry Competition serves as a testament to the enduring power of classical poetry. By recognizing and celebrating the work of these talented poets, the SCP fosters a vibrant community dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich traditions of formal verse. The competition not only honors the achievements of established poets but also inspires emerging voices to explore the beauty and depth of classical forms. The 2022 competition highlights the enduring appeal of timeless poetic techniques and the continued relevance of classical poetry in the modern world. It invites readers to rediscover the power of carefully crafted verse to evoke emotion, explore complex themes, and celebrate the human experience.