We Clarify Common Myths and Misconceptions About Poetry Contests
Poetry contests can be intimidating, a feeling often made worse by certain misconceptions; we dispel these myths and provide some clarity on how easy it is to enter. If you are looking to take part in a writing competition, but do not know how to go about it, where to enter, or how to gain confidence enough to try, we can help you. We aim to give budding South African poets a platform to express themselves in their home language. We create an opportunity for a new generation of writers to earn their place with other talented poets. To date, the AVBOB Poetry Project’s library contains over 17 000 poems. Each of these published poems earned their writer a R300 usage fee – and a few standout poets are even awarded phenomenal winning prizes every year.
“I have eaten
the plums
that were in
the icebox
and which
you were probably
saving
for breakfast
Forgive me
they were delicious
so sweet
and so cold”
Poems need never be long or convoluted. You can retain simplicity, and even enter poetry contests such as the AVBOB Poetry Project which allows you to enter a poem in your own mother tongue.
Myth 1: Poetry Contests Are Nothing More Than a Waste of Time
There is nothing wrong with a little competition or wanting to win. Everyone enjoys being recognised and rewarded for their hard work and talent. Poetry contests are not all about claiming that first-place prize, however. They are about challenging oneself, gaining experience and exposure, and seeking to become a better writer. Starting with an optimistic, can-do attitude is never a waste of time, even if one doesn’t win. In the end, you will walk away a better writer who is more confident and adept at poetry – this is an accomplishment in and of itself.Myth 2: You Need Advanced Training to Write Poetry
Poetry does take a good grasp of the written and spoken word, and you will need some knowledge on how to employ literary devices, rhythm, and various forms of poetry to express yourself. Fortunately, these are all tools that you can learn and assimilate into your writing. There is a misconception that all poetry needs to be over-complicated and utilise sophisticated language. “This is Just to Say” , a short poem by William Carlos Williams, is a poem about embracing the simple things in life, and features straightforward, concise language about eating some plums that were being saved for breakfast. This poem was written as a sort of short apology note,“I have eaten
the plums
that were in
the icebox
and which
you were probably
saving
for breakfast
Forgive me
they were delicious
so sweet
and so cold”
Poems need never be long or convoluted. You can retain simplicity, and even enter poetry contests such as the AVBOB Poetry Project which allows you to enter a poem in your own mother tongue.
Myth 3: You Have to Pay a Large Fee to Enter
Some poetry contests may require an entry fee, but many competitions are completely free to enter and even offer cash prizes for the winning entries. When it comes to online competitions that charge entrants, be sure that the competition is not a scam. Our reputable annual contest, for example, has been running for years and does not accept any money upon entry.Why Enter Poetry Contests Like the AVBOB Poetry Project
Entering regular poetry contests offers writers several benefits, including:- The chance to win fantastic prizes or get published.
- Writing experience.
- A chance to hone their skill using a variety of themes.
- Inspiration that is often enough to beat their writer’s block.
- Strengthening their voice and giving it a chance to be heard.
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