Exciting Collaboration Between Poetry Foundation and Graywolf Press
Recognizing poets 40 and older with a $10,000 prize and publication for their first or second book
The Poetry Foundation is thrilled to introduce the Pegasus Poetry Book Prize, a prestigious award designed to highlight the talent of poets aged 40 and above in the United States. This unique prize not only offers publication and promotion of the winning manuscript by Graywolf Press but also includes a generous $10,000 award from the Foundation along with an opportunity for a residency.
The Significance of the Pegasus Poetry Book Prize
Many great poets often labor for years before their works see the light of publication. Jeff Shotts, executive editor at Graywolf Press, eloquently captured this notion, stating, "Poetry doesn't happen on a timetable; it is an art of devotion and endurance. How fitting, then, to have a major publication prize that rewards patience—in the work and in the life of the poet." Shotts emphasizes the importance of recognizing those poets who find their voice later in life.
Celebrating Established Voices
Notable poets who exemplify this journey include Eduardo C. Corral, Toi Derricotte, and Linda Gregg. Their experiences remind us that breakthroughs in poetry can occur at any stage in one’s career. The Pegasus Poetry Book Prize is an essential initiative aimed at giving a platform to such artists who may have been overlooked due to their age or the timing of their publications.
Submissions for this award are welcomed until February 2, 2026, and the winner will be honored at the Poetry Foundation's annual Pegasus Awards Ceremony, set for October 2026.
A New Approach to a Legacy Award
This new prize reimagines the Emily Dickinson First Book Award, which celebrated poets over 40 who had yet to publish a first collection. The last recipient, Kristen Tracy, was honored in 2017 for her debut collection, Half-Hazard. By introducing the Pegasus Poetry Book Prize, the Poetry Foundation and Graywolf Press aim to provide a renewed focus on recognizing poets at a significant turning point in their lives and careers. This initiative is designed to not only honor their past efforts but also facilitate their future endeavors in poetry.
Supporting Poetry’s Emergent Voices
According to Adrian Matejka, the editor-in-chief of Poetry magazine, "Poetry is a lifelong commitment. It takes years of practice to learn to craft a single poem, and even longer to build a body of work substantial enough for a book." This statement reflects a common truth amongst poets; their art often ebbs and flows with life circumstances. The Pegasus Poetry Book Prize offers a much-needed opportunity for poets who may feel discouraged by the world around them.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
Eligibility for the Pegasus Poetry Book Prize is notably inclusive:
- Open to poets residing in the United States who are 40 years or older by the end of 2026.
- Applicants must have no more than one published full-length poetry collection.
- One original, unpublished book-length poetry manuscript spanning 48 to 80 pages, written in English, is required.
- Submissions must be solely authored by the applicant, with multilingual works accepted if a complete English translation by the author is provided.
- Current employees, trustees, and immediate family members of both the Poetry Foundation and Graywolf Press are excluded from eligibility.
- Online submissions will remain open from November 12, 2025, to February 2, 2026.
- Winning poets will be notified by early August 2026.
- This prize will not be awarded annually, but rather on a periodic basis.
For more information about submission details and guidelines, visit the Poetry Foundation’s website.
About the Poetry Foundation
The Poetry Foundation is committed to the transformative power of poetry. It operates to amplify voices and foster narratives that resonate within the community. This initiative, alongside the Pegasus Poetry Book Prize, showcases a dedication to making poetry accessible and celebrated.
About Graywolf Press
Graywolf Press stands out as a nonprofit literary publisher that champions innovative voices across poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Their commitment to literature is commendable, aiming to bring groundbreaking work to light, significantly impacting culture through art.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pegasus Poetry Book Prize?
The Pegasus Poetry Book Prize is an award recognizing poets aged 40 and older for their first or second poetry collection, offering $10,000 and publication.
Who is eligible to apply for the award?
Poets who are U.S. residents or citizens aged 40 and above, with no more than one published collection, are eligible to apply for the prize.
When can submissions be made?
Submissions for the prize can be made from November 12, 2025, until February 2, 2026.
How will the winner be notified?
The awardee will be notified by early August 2026, following the selection process.
What is the purpose of this award?
The award aims to celebrate and support poets whose works may not receive recognition until later in their careers.
