#United States #Chicago #Poetry Foundation #Graywolf Press #Pegasus Prize

New Pegasus Poetry Book Prize

In a remarkable initiative, the Poetry Foundation has teamed up with Graywolf Press to launch the Pegasus Poetry Book Prize. Aimed at recognizing the contributions of poets aged 40 and older, this innovative award celebrates the often-overlooked voices of mature poets who are on the cusp of their literary breakthrough. The prize focuses on writers for their first or second poetry collection, ensuring that their hard-earned craft gains the recognition it deserves.

A Significant Investment in Poetry

The new Pegasus Poetry Book Prize will not only provide a monetary award of $10,000 but also offer publication and promotional support through Graywolf Press. Alongside this financial backing, the awarded poet will have the opportunity for a residency, allowing them the space and time to create. This comprehensive support underscores the commitment of both organizations to nurture literary talent at pivotal stages in a poet's career.

Adrian Matejka, the editor-in-chief of Poetry magazine, commented on the importance of recognizing poets during a time in their journey that is often underappreciated. He noted, "Poetry is a lifelong commitment. It takes years of practice to learn to craft a single poem, and even longer to build a body of work substantial enough for a book." This sentiment highlights the significance of creating platforms for poets to present their voices, especially when life's practicalities often distract from the poetic endeavor.

Historical Context and Legacy Reimagined

The Pegasus Poetry Book Prize reimagines the earlier Emily Dickinson First Book Award, originally established in 2005. This previous award recognized poets aged 40 and older who had not yet published a first collection, with its last recipient being Kristen Tracy in 2017. The new award aims to emphasize the ongoing journey for poets who might have experienced setbacks but continue to express their art. Jeff Shotts, the executive editor at Graywolf Press, shared insights into the enduring nature of poetry, asserting that the prize honors those who have demonstrated steady dedication to their craft over time.

Submission Guidelines and Timetable

Interested poets can submit their manuscripts starting November 12, 2025, until February 2, 2026. To be eligible, applicants must be U.S. citizens or residents, and they should be at least 40 years old by December 31, 2026. A crucial requirement is that the poet must have published no more than one full-length poetry collection and must submit a previously unpublished manuscript of 48 to 80 pages.

The award will be presented during the Poetry Foundation's annual Pegasus Awards Ceremony in October 2026, signifying a proud moment for the winning poet and the literary community at large.

The Broader Impact

The Poetry Foundation's launch of this prize is expected to provide invaluable support for poets whose work resonates at this later stage in life, an opportunity that is rarely publicized or celebrated. Through this collaboration with Graywolf Press, the award will not only enhance the visibility of poets over 40 but also promote the art of poetry as a lifelong endeavor deserving of encouragement and investment.

As both organizations continue to champion the power of poetry to transform lives, the Pegasus Poetry Book Prize stands as a testament to their ongoing commitment to enriching the literary landscape and expanding the boundaries of poetic expression. Further details and submission guidelines are available on the Pegasus Poetry Book Prize website.