Aloha;
The first day of April is often an opportunity for harmless pranks, or telling silly stories. Some of the more practical-minded among us turn an eye towards our gardens; or seek to start something new. We suspect that interest in these pastimes is a result of the longer days, and warmer weather, we begin experiencing around this time of year.
After the cold and dark challenges of Winter, we anticipate the activities, and opportunities, that herald the blossoming of Spring. In keeping with that spirit of exploration, we participated in a poetry contest today; promoted by Winning Writers.com. This site is an important resource, and opportunity for writers, newly minted, or seasoned; to keep pace with many of the contest offerings held each year.
They provide listings of Free Literary Contests, and more (and their coverage ranges beyond the United States); as well as sponsoring contests of their own. While some of these contests have entry fees; a significant number which are free to enter. Along with the proper submission requirements, deadlines and official contacts, of the contest providers.
However listing contests are only some of the benefit they offer writers; as they address multiple aspects of a writer’s craft. This includes writing resources, techniques, tools and insights. They also discuss writing styles, voice, various genres and poetic forms. All available for merely subscribing to their website. If your interest in learning about writing contests, this free site seems a legitimate and straightforward place to begin.
We have an interest in learning more about their organization, and similar sites; which encourage, and assist writers. We are learning more about literary contests and their benefit for new writers. As we are developing plans for our own exploration into poetry, and other poetic forms. That is still ahead of us; but on this April First we succumbed to curiosity, decided to do something different. And who knows? We may win!
While we won’t mention our submission to Winning Writers.com, the staff has selected a poem to present for today’s posting. Neither shall I comment on the genre, or selection they’ve chosen. But I do hope you enjoy it.
The Emperor’s Nephew
The emperor’s nephew and the emperor’s niece traveled through the galaxy to bring the empire peace
The monarch’s niece was murdered the nephew became enraged he soon was caught in a war that had already been staged
The nephew’s heart was hardened and he escalated this war sought out his cousin’s murderers then slowly slaughtered all four
The opposing armies tried to yield but he continued to fight since they could not deter him they fled in haste and fright
His armies hunted them long across the empire wide they finally had to leave it for there was nowhere to hide
Forced from their homes they were bitter the nephew’s hated name they cursed and vowed that they would destroy him but would end his uncle’s rule first
The emperor named these kin outlaws . and set a price for each head remember this cause of the struggle that has now left billions dead
This poem was written by J. A. Stubbs, in a different millennium; for a world that no longer exists. He has given Forgotten Lore Publishing, llc permission to use “The Emperor’s Nephew” for this post. He retains all rights to this intellectual property. More posts are available here.
Respectfully Yours,
J. A. Stubbs, Editor-In-Chief
Forgotten Lore Publishing, llc