The Yale Younger Poets award is one of the most prestigious poetry awards in the United States, presented annually by Yale University Press to a promising poet under the age of 40. The award has been recognizing and nurturing young poetic talent since 1919, with a long list of distinguished past winners, including Adrienne Rich, John Ashbery, and Carolyn Forché. The award is unique in that it not only acknowledges exceptional poetry but also provides a publishing opportunity for emerging poets.
Eligibility and Submission Guidelines
To be eligible for the Yale Younger Poets award, applicants must be citizens of the United States and under the age of 40 at the time of submission. The award is open to poets who have not published a book-length collection of poetry. The submission period typically opens in the fall and closes in mid-November, with the winner announced the following spring. Applicants are required to submit a manuscript of original poetry, usually between 48 and 64 pages in length, along with a $25 entry fee. The manuscript should be typed, double-spaced, and free of the poet’s name to ensure blind judging.
Manuscript Preparation
Preparing a manuscript for submission to the Yale Younger Poets award requires careful consideration. The manuscript should represent the poet’s best work and demonstrate a coherent and powerful voice. Poets are advised to include a table of contents and to organize their manuscript in a logical and aesthetically pleasing manner. It is also recommended to include a brief acknowledgments page, listing any previously published poems. However, the focus should be on new, unpublished work that showcases the poet’s current style and thematic concerns.
| Category | Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Age Requirement | Under 40 years old |
| Citizenship | United States citizen |
| Manuscript Length | 48-64 pages |
| Entry Fee | $25 |
| Submission Period | Typically fall to mid-November |
The judging process for the Yale Younger Poets award is rigorous and involves a panel of esteemed poets and scholars. The judges look for manuscripts that demonstrate a unique and compelling voice, as well as technical skill and mastery of poetic forms. The winner is selected based on the overall strength of their manuscript, with consideration given to the poet's potential for future growth and contribution to the literary landscape.
Past Winners and Their Impact
The list of past winners of the Yale Younger Poets award reads like a who’s who of American poetry. From the early winners, such as Stephen Vincent Benét and Muriel Rukeyser, to more recent recipients, like Eduardo C. Corral and Natalie Scenters-Zapico, the award has consistently recognized poets who go on to make significant contributions to the field. Many winners have gone on to publish numerous collections, win additional awards, and become influential voices in American literature.
Benefits of Winning
Winning the Yale Younger Poets award brings numerous benefits, including publication of the winning manuscript by Yale University Press, a cash prize, and widespread recognition within the literary community. The award can significantly boost a poet’s career, leading to new opportunities for publication, teaching, and public readings. Additionally, the prestige associated with the award can open doors to fellowships, residencies, and other forms of support that enable poets to continue developing their craft.
- Publication by Yale University Press
- Cash prize
- Recognition within the literary community
- Opportunities for publication, teaching, and public readings
- Eligibility for fellowships, residencies, and other forms of support
What is the age limit for submitting to the Yale Younger Poets award?
+The age limit for submitting to the Yale Younger Poets award is under 40 years old. Poets must be under the age of 40 at the time of submission to be eligible.
Can I submit a manuscript that has been previously published in part?
+Yes, you can submit a manuscript that includes previously published poems, but the manuscript as a whole must be unpublished. You should include an acknowledgments page listing any previously published poems.
How do I submit my manuscript for the Yale Younger Poets award?
+Manuscripts should be submitted online through the Yale University Press website during the designated submission period, usually from fall to mid-November. Be sure to follow the submission guidelines carefully and pay the $25 entry fee.
In conclusion, the Yale Younger Poets award is a coveted honor that recognizes and supports emerging poetic talent in the United States. By understanding the eligibility criteria, submission guidelines, and benefits of winning, poets can prepare strong manuscripts and take the first step towards a successful career in poetry. As the literary landscape continues to evolve, the Yale Younger Poets award remains a vital platform for discovering and nurturing the next generation of American poets.
