The December poetry challenge invites submissions centered on themes of gratitude and reflection as the year comes to a close. The challenge follows November’s theme of embracing a winter mindset, encouraging poets to capture those special moments that inspire appreciation.

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Participants are asked to submit original poems in response to the prompt, which should provoke an “ah ha” moment for readers. Preference will be given to poets from Bristol, so submissions should include the author’s address. If a Bristol native resides elsewhere, please clarify the connection in the accompanying email.

Submission guidelines include:

- Poems may or may not rhyme.

- There is flexibility in structure; poets can use any formal style, such as sonnets or villanelles.

- Poems must relate to the chosen subject and incorporate wordplay, with musicality being beneficial.

- The tone can range from light-hearted to serious.

The deadline for submissions is November 24 at 5 p.m., with publication slated for December. Poems should be sent as Word documents attached to the email. Additionally, poets are requested to include a headshot and a complementary image or sketch with their submissions, sent as separate attachments.

Submissions should be sent to [email protected] with “December poetry challenge” in the subject line. Participants are reminded to state their Bristol connection. An upcoming January challenge will also be announced.

TBE retains the rights to publish selected submissions in an anthology, while writers maintain their copyright.