Participate in the Words & Wonders Poetry Contest

Do you want to share your poetry with the City of Orlando?

Selfless acts of service to others is a virtue most folks value, but what does that look like in your context? What does it feel like?

Who's modeled service in a way that inspires you? What was inspirational about it? What analogies could you use to communicate the essence of service? Why is service important in our society?

That's the theme of our next Words and Wonders Poetry Contest! Thank you for your service in verse!

 

Online

Step 1.Review submission guidelines

Poems should be original work and short, no longer than 12 lines if written and no longer than 3 minutes if spoken. Poems can include free verse, rhymes, etc., whatever suits your vision of the poem. Even a haiku of 17 syllables can seize a moment and give it lasting impact.

Photos of inspiration can be included but are not required.

Writers of all ages are welcome. Writers under 18 are requested to list their age in their entry. The challenge is open to residents of Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties. First place winners can only win once a year. 

Step 2.Submit your work by May 12, 2023 at 4 p.m. 

Submit your work now

Orlando’s Poet Laureate Shawn Welcome will review and choose poems to share with the community, and recognized poets will receive prizes. Winners will be announced the week of June 1, 2023, on the City of Orlando's social media channels and will be contacted directly. Each winner will receive a custom Words & Wonders journal and thank you letter from Mayor Dyer.