The Poetry Society of Virginia is the Commonwealth's oldest poetry nonprofit organization. The organization was founded in May 1923 in Williamsburg. We encourage excellence in writing, reading, study, and the appreciation of poetry through annual poetry contests, an annual anthology, book awards, statewide readings and programs and literary festivals.
1. Veterans of U.S. military in any of the following branches: Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, or Space Force are eligible to submit UP TO THREE poems to the contest. More than 3 entries by the same entrant will be disqualified without notifying the entrant.
2. Poems should celebrate perseverance & resilience of veterans during Active Duty service and/or re-entry into civilian life following service.
3. Poems must be 45 lines or less in ANY form, including blank lines between stanzas.
4. Poems using profanity, racist, or sexist language will be disqualified.