A brand new poetry competition organised by former Poet Laureate Dame Carol Ann Duffy, alongside the University of Lincoln, has reached its halfway point.
The Schools Poetry Competition opened in January, giving aspiring poets from the U.K. and around the world the opportunity to submit their work under the theme of the ongoing pandemic.
The event is open to poets between the ages of 9 and 18, spread across four different categories: 9-11, 12-14, 15-16 and 17-18.
Poems entered can take any form of the poet’s choice, whether that be sonnet, haiku or something else, though they must stick to a 500-word limit.
The competition is set to be judged by the former poet laureate herself, as well as Professor Jason Whittaker, head of English and journalism at the university.
Mr Whittaker said he feels it’s important for young people to be exposed to poetry.“Young people enjoy poetry. They want to write it. It excites them,” he said. “The arts have helped many of us to stay positive during these times.”
Anyone wishing to enter the competition is required to submit their poetic works to competitions@lincoln.ac.uk.
The contest closes on 1 March, with prizes awarded to both the winners and runners-up.