7 Empowering Insights that Debunk Common Myths About Poetry Writing Contests
There are several myths about poetry writing contests, but we’re here to dispel those doubts and hopefully show you why to enter with us! Participating in a poetry competition can be a transformative experience for beginners and professional poets alike because it’s such a powerful platform for one’s voice. Unfortunately, some writers hesitate to enter because of common misconceptions about such contests, which make the process feel intimidating or futile. At The AVBOB Poetry Project, we’d like to inspire poets of all kinds to pick up their pens and show them what a rewarding journey it can be!
- You Don’t Need Years of Experience to Enter Poetry Writing Contests
Newcomers may feel discouraged to enter poetry writing contests if they believe only seasoned poets can succeed. Even if it is your first time writing a poem, your lack of experience does not disqualify you. On the contrary, the judges of poetry competitions often value fresh voices with something original to add. Some contests, like The AVBOB Poetry Project, are designed to platform all voices and discover new local talent, offering a level playing field to anyone who wishes to participate. - There is No Need to Follow Poetry Trends
Trends often dominate the literary landscape, which may also extend to writing competitions. You can still forge your own path and get creative with your work, however. There is sometimes a misconception that only free verse poems or poems with traditional rhyme schemes are what the judges are looking for, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Writing trends are fleeting, but an authentic voice and exciting writing style will set you apart. - Technical Perfection Doesn’t Outweigh Authenticity
Polished poetry is undoubtedly impressive – especially if it is well-edited and technically on point. We encourage entrants to work on editing their pieces and refining them as much as possible. It is also important to remember that perfection is not the goal – embracing your uniqueness is. Your perspective and depth will outweigh your technical ability in the eyes of the judges, so be sure to give adequate attention to these aspects when you enter. - Not All Poetry Competitions Are Only in English
We live in a multi-cultural, multi-linguistic society and emphasis is often, unfortunately, placed only on English literature. Concerning poetry competitions, this may deter talented writers who wish to participate and express themselves in their mother tongue. When entering with us, you can do so in any of the 11 official written languages and truly share who you are with the world. - Not All Poetry Competitions Have Entry Fees
The idea that all writing competitions entail an entry fee is a barrier to many poets who wish to enter. While some competitions require an upfront payment, there are many that are 100% free. If you want to hone your skills and enter a contest, don’t let finances be a concern – instead, find one that accommodates you. The AVBOB Poetry Competition allows poets to enter by registering with their details; no payment is required. If successfully chosen, your poem can even earn you money! - Themes Can Promote Creativity in More Ways Than You Realise
With a theme, rules, and guidelines, you might expect that poetry writing contests are restrictive in some way. For many writers, however, the opposite is true. A well-chosen theme and set rules can inspire various angles of the same subject, and you can think outside the box on how to approach your piece. Rather than seeing the theme as something that confines your creativity, look at it as an invitation to explore your talent and discover something about the subject matter you have never thought of before. - The Point of Poetry Competitions Goes Beyond Winning
Perhaps one of the most limiting myths about poetry competitions is that the only point is to win and that if you don’t think you can, you shouldn’t bother entering. Winning is always fun and a meaningful affirmation of the hard work you put into a poem, but the true value of entering is the experience itself. Competitions offer the opportunity to refine your skills, gain exposure, appreciate the work of other writers, and a way to grow through self-expression. When you redefine winning as all the benefits you gain from entering, there is simply no way to lose.
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