How to Judge a Poetry Contest
As a poet, creative writer, English teacher, publisher or editor, you're in high demand as a poetry contest judge. Libraries, institutions of higher learning and professional writing organizations hold many such contests each year for poets of all ages. They want qualified judges who recognize top-notch poetry when they see it.
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Instructions
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Be familiar with classic poetry and the mechanics of different styles such as haiku, free verse and metered rhyme. Your knowledge of this literary genre--in addition to your creative writing or editing skills--prepares you to render fairer and more educated judgments about the contest entries.
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Obtain a copy of the rules and judge's guidelines from the library, school or organization sponsoring the event. Regulations vary from contest to contest concerning the age of applicants and the length and type of poetry desired.
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Apply the criteria to each poem. For contests with large volumes of entries, set criteria helps you easily eliminate poems that don't comply with these guidelines. Possible criteria include originality, word choice, readability, message, form, assonance, alliteration, rhyme, meter and overall impact.
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Narrow down the poems into a semifinalists' and then finalists' group. If you're having trouble selecting entries, reread each poem in the category to determine which one best meets the contest criteria.
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Send your winning selection(s) and any honorable mentions to the contest director. Write personal comments about the winning poem, which highlight your favorite aspect of the piece: for example, "Your entry, 'Field Flowers,' displays wonderful alliteration and very engaging natural images."
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