Entries for the ACU Prize for Poetry have opened, with the competition this year calling for poems on the theme of faith. Source: Australian Catholic University.
The theme was inspired by Helen Keller’s quote, “Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light.”
The total prize pool is $18,000, with the first prize winner set to $10,000 at the annual ACU Prize for Poetry award ceremony in Sydney on October 1.
ACU Emeritus Professor Margot Hillel and ACU Professor of Classical Reception and Renaissance Studies and poet Professor Robert Carver, will return as the prize’s judges this year.
Professor Hillel said many poets would agree that faith was integral to the life of a writer.
“There is the faith needed to put pen to paper and craft your words, but also putting one’s faith in the reader to absorb your ideas and messages, and have respect for them,” she said.
“Faith is certainly a significant theme for many poets who observe a particular religion or spiritual practice and use their poetry to explore the realities of their faith.”
Now in its 11th year, the ACU Prize for Poetry continues the Church’s tradition of encouraging new works of art and literature.
ACU Vice-President Fr Anthony Casamento csma encouraged new and younger writers to consider entering the competition this year.
“Established more than a decade ago, the ACU Prize for Poetry is a hallmark of the Australian arts calendar, respected by new and emerging poets and writers across our nation,” Fr Casamento said.
“We especially encourage younger writers to enter new works to build our collection of creative and inspiring poetry.
Entries close on July 2. Details: ACU Prize for Poetry website.
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