Poetic Freedom Writing Competition

The Short Story UNC Editorial Board is excited to announce the Poetic Freedom Writing Competition! Directly inspired by George Moses Horton, this writing competition asks participants to think on and explore the concept of poetic freedom. Horton, who was born into slavery in North Carolina in 1798, orally composed poetry to sell to UNC students at the farmers market, hoping to use the proceeds to purchase his freedom. An extremely talented poet, Horton’s work drew the attention of influential community members, and he ultimately became the first Black author to publish a book in the South. 

With this, the Editorial Board asks… What does poetic freedom mean to you?

Submissions must be 250-500 words in length, but are not limited to poetry!

Submit to http://unc.short-edition.com by September 30th at midnight. Be sure to indicate that your submission is for consideration in our Poetic Freedom Writing Competition.

Throughout the month of September, the Board will also be spotlighting several of Horton’s works, as well as a few others from equally incredible poets. Stay posted as these amazing authors are featured this month!

Happy writing!

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