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Ploughshares Emerging Writer's Contest

Literary contest

About

The Ploughshares Emerging Writer's Contest is a prestigious literary competition that acknowledges emerging talent in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. It is open annually from March 1 to May 15, providing a platform for writers who have not published or self-published a book in any genre. The contest is a key part of Ploughshares' mission to promote up-and-coming writers, following in the footsteps of renowned authors like Edward P. Jones and Sue Miller. Each year, one winner in each genre receives a $2,000 cash prize and publication in Ploughshares, a highly respected literary journal. Winners also engage in a conversation with Aevitas Creative Management, offering valuable insights into their writing careers. The contest is judged by prominent literary figures, such as R. O. Kwon for fiction and Joshua Bennett for poetry. Entries must be original and unpublished, with specific guidelines for submission format and content. Current Ploughshares subscribers can enter for free, while others pay a $30 fee, which includes a journal subscription.