San Antonio’s Young Writers Celebrate Creativity in Annual Poetry Competition

San Antonio’s Young Writers Shine in Annual Poetry Competition

Hey there, San Antonio! If you’re a budding poet or know a young wordsmith aged 18 and under, this is your moment to shine! The San Antonio Public Library has been a vibrant hub for creativity for over 90 years, and each year it opens its doors wide to celebrate the art of poetry through the Young Pegasus Poetry Competition.

What is the Young Pegasus Poetry Competition?

So what’s the big deal about this competition? Well, it’s a fantastic opportunity for kiddos to express themselves and dive into the world of poetry. Whether they’re scribbling heartfelt emotions, crafting whimsical tales, or exploring serious topics, this is a platform where their voices can truly resonate. The interest in poetry has only grown over the years, giving young authors a stage to shine.

A Little History

Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane! Can you believe this competition has been around for more than 90 years? That’s almost a century of supporting young writers! According to Cresencia Huff, the Coordinator of Children’s Services at the library, this competition was born from a desire to encourage creativity and a love for literature among young people. Huff shared that it’s one of the longest-running programs of its kind in the country, and it has nurtured countless budding authors over the decades.

How Does It Work?

Participating in the Young Pegasus Poetry Competition is super simple! Young poets can submit their original works, which are then evaluated by a panel of judges who appreciate the craft of poetry. The selected poems get the prestigious honor of being published in the annual Young Pegasus Anthology. Not only will the winners have their talent showcased, but they will also get the thrill of seeing their name in print alongside their peers!

How to Participate

Curious about how to join the fun? It’s easy-peasy! Young writers can enter the competition by filling out an entry form available at the library’s website or at any San Antonio Public Library branch. It’s a great way for young poets to put their thoughts and emotions into words, and they can submit up to three poems. So, whether they want to dive deep into a personal experience or kick off a light and funny piece, there’s plenty of room to play!

But, and here’s the important part, submissions must be original and in English. The deadline for entries is typically in late March, so there’s plenty of time for youngsters to get their creative juices flowing!

Why This Matters

You might be wondering, why is this competition important? Well, poetry is a powerful tool for self-expression! It allows young individuals to articulate their feelings and thoughts in a unique way, helping them to connect with others. Huff emphasizes that being published is not only a confidence booster but also a valuable experience for those interested in pursuing writing in the future. Plus, who doesn’t love a good book?

Mark Your Calendars!

If you have young poets in your life, make sure to mark your calendars and encourage them to participate! The Young Pegasus Poetry Competition is more than just a contest; it’s an invitation to explore, express, and excel in the literary arts. It’s all happening right here in our beloved San Antonio.

So, let’s inspire the young creators among us to pick up their pens and let their imaginations soar! Who knows? The next literary superstar might just be from your neighborhood!