Poetry’s Powerhouse Returns: Patricia Eschen Prize for Poetry at The Morrab Library

Photo: The poetry room at the Morrab Library featuring John Trigg – Credit Ian Kingsnorth

Cornwall’s treasured independent haven for literature, The Morrab Library in Penzance, is once again set to host the eagerly anticipated Patricia Eschen Prize for Poetry.

Now in its flourishing second year, the competition promises to bring together poetic voices from around the globe in a celebration of lyrical creativity.

More Than Just a Competition

In partnership with the Dennis Myner Trust, this year’s event is not just a continuation but an expansion of its poetic pursuits. Alongside the main poetry prize, 2024 will see the introduction of the “Sonnet Prize,” specifically honouring the best sonnet submissions. Furthermore, the spirit of poetry will be nurtured among younger generations through a children’s poetry competition, embracing categories for ages 4-11 and 12-17.

The Poetic Window Opens Soon

Poets worldwide should mark their calendars as the submission window opens on Wednesday, 8th May at 10:00 BST, remaining open until Friday, 19th July at 23:59 BST. Entrants are invited to submit their original, unpublished poems across any form and style.

Voices from the Poetry World

Lisa Di Tommaso, the librarian at The Morrab, expressed her delight at the global and local response to last year’s launch, which saw a vast number of entries and significant local engagement, including a full school participation.

Esteemed Judges and Prizes

Katrina Naomi, an award-winning poet known for her insightful and resonant poetry, will return to judge the Patricia Eschen Prize for Poetry. Katrina, whose works have received notable recognition including the Authors’ Foundation Award, shared her judging philosophy and advice for entrants, encouraging poets to remain true to their unique voices and meticulous in their editing.

Adding to the excitement, the Sonnet Prize will be judged by Jodie Hollander, renowned for her expertise in crafting evocative sonnet structures that captivate and challenge the reader.

Photo: Katrina Naomi – Photo credit Ian Kingsnorth

Photo: Jodie Hollander

Increased Stakes

The stakes are higher than ever with the prize money for the Patricia Eschen Prize increased to £2000 for the winner, £1000 for second place, and £500 for third. The winner of the Sonnet Prize will receive a generous £1500.

A Focused Eye on the Young

The children’s competition will see entries judged by a knowledgeable trio from Cornwall: Annamaria Murphy, Dicky Souray, and Keith Sparrow, who are all involved in fostering young literary talent through workshops and spoken word poetry projects.

Engage with Poetry

Throughout the competition period, The Morrab Library will host a series of poetry performances and readings, available both in person and digitally. These events, along with further details on the competition, can be found on the library’s website.

All shortlisted poets will be celebrated at a prize-giving event in October in Penzance, bringing together the best of poetic talent under one roof.

For those interested in participating or learning more about the different prizes and entry details, visit The Morrab Library’s event page.

Dive into the world of poetry this year at The Morrab Library and let your http://morrablibrary.org.uk/childrenspoetryprize2024creative spirit soar!