Prairie Soul Poetry Prize FarmGirl Press

The Prairie Soul Poetry Prize celebrates the voices that rise from open skies, quiet horizons, and the landscapes of memory, resilience, and hope. Inspired by the words of Nebraska writer Willa Cather—“It takes a soul to love a prairie”—this contest seeks poems that capture the spirit of place and the depth of human experience, whether rooted in prairie soil or carried from far beyond. We welcome submissions of original poetry that explore connection—to land, to history, to each other, and to the unseen forces that shape our lives. All forms and styles are welcome, from traditional to experimental, as long as the work speaks with authenticity and imagination.

2027 Prairie Soul Poetry Prize Temp Closed

Opens on Thursday, October 1, 2026 12:00 AM CDT (in 21 hours, 20 minutes).

The Prairie Soul Poetry Prize celebrates the voices that rise from open skies, quiet horizons, and the landscapes of memory, resilience, and hope. Inspired by the words of Nebraska writer Willa Cather—“It takes a soul to love a prairie”—this contest seeks poems that capture the spirit of place and the depth of human experience, whether rooted in prairie soil or carried from far beyond. Let your words echo across the wide horizon—send us the poetry of your prairie soul.

Submit up to 5 poems.

Previously unpublished work only.

Simultaneous submissions are welcome; please notify us promptly if your work is accepted elsewhere.

Entry Fee: $25.00

Deadline: February 1, 2027

The winner will receive $500, publication in our Spring Issue of The Gilded Weathervane, and a complimentary copy of the magazine.

Honorable mentions will also receive publication in The Gilded Weathervane and a complimentary copy of the magazine.

Not Open

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