Prize Information
The Cover Prize
Each issue will feature one writer on its cover. The piece we like the best out of the pool of accepted writers wins the coveted cover. There are no entry fees or application materials other than the regular submission of your manuscript. If you win the Cover Prize, we will ask that you handwrite your piece on a napkin of your choosing. Your work will also appear typed inside.
Previous Cover Prize Winners
1.4: Pool, Michael Trocchia
1.3: Sally, Morgan Harlow
1.2: Nocturne, Paula McLain
1.1: Where in the Story the Horse Mazy Dies, Jane Mead
The Gerald Stern Poetry Prize
2009 Editor: Joan Larkin
Gerald Stern
Photograph © Martin Desht, 2007.
Used with permission.
Each year, the Dirty Napkin will sponsor the Gerald Stern Poetry Prize. In Gerald's own words, we want poems that show "courage, audacity, originality, humility, intelligence, and honesty." The winner will receive $250 and a book chosen by Gerald Stern. Congratulations to our first winner, Christina Olson! Submissions are now open for the 2009 prize. Submissions must be received by 1 May 2009 with the winner announced in our Summer 2009 issue. You retain the full copyright of your work and should we decide to publish it on our website, we will request your permission. Here are the guidelines:
- Submit a 4–8 poem manuscript. All work should be previously unpublished.
- Submit a $5 application fee, deposited securely through Google Checkout (you will be directed there via a special link after submitting your manuscript).
- Include your contact information on the cover letter only.
- You may not apply if you are an editor's former or current student.
Previous Gerald Stern Poetry Prize Winners
2008: Christina Olson
Previous Gerald Stern Poetry Prize Editors
2008: Gerald Stern