In “Mortification,” the raw intricacies of anatomy lead the speaker to moments of introspection; as much as we are part of the world, Jane Zwart’s poem argues, we are also her witness and philosopher. Mortification In the first flush…
We’re all very excited to share with you the winners of the 2021 New Voices Contest, selected by Donika Kelly. Today, we have “Interlocution” by Syd Westley. Stay tuned for our second place poem by A.D. Lauren-Abunassar next Wednesday, and…
Here’s a short selection, from our own Jose, of some of the best new poems that hit the web this May. These five poets, both established and emerging, deserve your attention and support—featuring work from Megan Fernandes in The American…
In “ECLIPSE,” a lingering memory mimics a vision of shadow and light. Like the light, like the shadow: we are always with those who’ve cared for us. ECLIPSE We’ve tucked the skylights in, stapled the curtains to the wall.…
Congratulations to the talented emerging poet S. Kim, winner of the 2021 New Voices Contest, and a sincere thanks to everyone who submitted. S Kim has been selected for the $3000 prize by the incredible Donika Kelly. A.D. Lauren-Abunassar is…
As a platform for emerging poets, our mission is to provide practical help for serious writers. The community lifts itself up together or not at all. In that light, we’ve been asking some great editors from around the literary community…
In “Notes on Desire, on Distance,” a dead buck in the road leaves the speaker to muse on the passions in her life. These musings, both familial and romantic, guide the poem’s climax of ultimate unity. Notes on Desire,…
We’re so proud to share some insight into the lives and hearts of today’s poets with our Poet In The Mirror series. This week, Kathleen Ossip—author of July (available now from Sarabande Books)—shares insight into feminist writings, changing forms throughout…
In “When You Kiss Me Your Hands Smell Like Bleach,” a mundane scene of spring cleaning turns into a declaration of true passion. In a whimsical tone, the speaker praises love and beauty of the everyday, like Neruda’s odes before…
In the Year of Our Making & Unmaking made a stunning debut this month—a powerful and innovative meditation on love and beauty and mystery punched into the chapbook form. Carl Phillips chose this chapbook as the winner of our 2020…
