I’m only listing free-to-enter competitions as, if you are just starting out, you can otherwise spend a fortune. If you have anything poetry-related to share, please get in touch via email: rosiesandler@talktalk.net – thank you!
Please note: publication on this site does not mean publications/competition organisers have been vetted – please do your own checks before submitting.
Happy writing!
Rosie
Third Point Press
Submissions will open on 1 June 2017 (until 31 July 2017) for writing on the theme of ‘Skin’ for issue eight of Third Point Press. The publication aims to feature both local writers from Lancaster (that’s Lancaster in the US, Pennsylvania) and international writers. Full info here.
Scottish-international publisher
Scottish-and-Swedish-based indie publisher Word-o-Mat seeks international submissions for edition number three of its quarterly print zines, that fit into a box the size of a cigarette packet! Submissions are especially encouraged from “female and non-binary writers”. Previously published work is considered, as long as you state where it was published, and that you retain copyright. Visit the website for full info.
Tiny poems wanted
Petite Hound Press specialises in pairing a poem or flash fiction story with a piece of visual artwork, to create unexpected juxtapositions. Send up to 3 poems of no more than 7 lines each!
On being Islanded
Islanded Quarterly is a new publication. It is seeking poetry (and stories) that responds to the theme of being ‘islanded’ for its first issue (aiming for publication summer 2017).
Opportunities for Underrepresented Writers
Creative Future Literary Awards are open for entries of poetry and flash fiction from writers (UK only) who find it hard to access the literary world, due to ill health (including mental health issues), disability or social circumstance. Poems are invited of up to 200 words (flash fiction up to 300) on the theme of ‘important nothings’. Winning pieces will be published in an anthology. Prizes include cash plus writer development opportunities such as mentoring, courses and professional consultations. Writers may submit a maximum of one piece per category (one poem and/or one piece of flash fiction). Read the eligibility criteria carefully before submitting.
Working Class Verse
UK poets have until 31 May 2017 to submit their poems to Culture Matters’ Bread and Roses Poetry Award, sponsored by Unite the Union. Copied from website:
The purpose of the new award is to encourage poets to focus on themes which are meaningful to working class people and communities, and to enable those communities to engage more with poetry. There is a £500 cash prize for the winner, £250 second prize and £100 third prize.
Entries should consist of three poems each no more than 50 lines long, and should be sent to info@culturematters.org.uk by 31st May 2017.
War Poems by Female Poets
Consequence Magazine is open until 30 September 2017, for submissions from people identifying as female, writing on the subject of war. Submit up to five poems online via Submittable here.
