Samuel Washington Allen Prize, judged by Robert Pinsky
For a long poem or poem sequence of 3 to 10 pages, single-spaced.
This prize honors the legacy of the African-American poet, translator, professor, and former New England Poetry Club leader, Samuel Washington Allen, who also published as Paul Vesey.
E. E. Cummings Prize, judged by Nicole Terez Dutton
For a compelling, lyrical, or experimental poem under 21 lines.
This prize recognizes one of the New England Poetry Club’s most famous charter members.
Amy Lowell Prize, judged by Martha Collins
For an outstanding poem of any length or style by a poet with strong ties to New England.
This prize recognizes the charismatic poet who was the New England Poetry Club’s first president.
Der-Hovanessian Prize, judged by Alan Smith Soto
For a translation from any language; the original poem should be authored by someone other than the translator.
Include the poem in the original language along with the translation.
This long-standing prize is named in honor of poet and translator Diana Der-Hovanessian who led the New England Poetry Club with vision and energy for decades.
BOOK PRIZES
Jean Pedrick Chapbook Prize, judged by Naila Moreira
For a chapbook of poems published in the last two years.
Sheila Margaret Motton Book Prize, judged by the NEPC Board
For a book of poems published in the last two years.
SUBMISSION PERIOD
April and May only; click here for guidelines and details.
COST
Free for Members (Membership information here)
Non-members may enter by paying $5 for each poem submitted.
PRIZES AND RECOGNITION
Winners will receive:
- $250
- Publication of winning poems on NEPC website
- Opportunity to read at the NEPC (travel expenses not included)
Winners of the book contests will also receive 250 NEPC Award book-cover stickers (gold or silver-foil stickers which identify the book as prize-winning)