The city is encouraging poets of all ages to submit entries into this year’s Words and Wonders Poetry Contest.
This year’s theme asks entrants to write about someone who has modeled service in a way that inspires. Contest entries will be accepted through May 12, 2023 at 4 p.m. The city’s official statement on the contest is as follows:
Selfless acts of service to others is a virtue most folks value, but what does that look like in your context? What does it feel like? Who’s modeled service in a way that inspires you? What was inspirational about it? What analogies could you use to communicate the essence of service? Why is service important in our society?
Submitted poems should be original works that are no longer than 12 lines if written and no longer than 3 minutes if spoken. Poems can include free verse, rhymes, and everything in between. Inspiration photos may be included, but are not required.
Writers of all ages are welcome, with anyone under 18 asked to list their age in the entry.
The contest is open to residents of Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties.
Once submitted, Orlando Poet Laureate Shawn Welcome will review and choose poems to share with the community. Winners will be announced the week of June 1 through the city’s social media channels. Each winner will receive a custom Words & Wonders journal and thank you letter from Mayor Buddy Dyer.