Masland Library Student Poet Laureate: 2018/19

Please consult the following links.

In 1958, then Senator John F. Kennedy coined the phrase "a Nation of Immigrants." This reminds us how our nation's cultural heritage is diverse, consisting of many communities. The idea of being a "sojourner in a foreign land" (Exodus 2:22) speaks to all Christians as we await Christ's return. This year, we would like to hear your expressions of being an immigrant on earth. These expressions are about longing for home, resettling in a new land, and attempting to navigate a strange culture.  This culture may be a new country, a new move, or a new season of life.  We want to hear your unique perspective on what it means to resettle in what may be your "foreign land."

Each poem will be evaluated in two ways: content and presentation.  The judging panel will be using the rubrics listed at the end of this document to determine the poet laureate.  Although the panel will provide some feedback, the overall goal for the event is to celebrate poetic expressions.  Therefore, entrants will not be given a "score" for their work.  The rubrics simply provide guidelines.

Deadline:  The poems must be submitted electronically to library@cairn.edu by November 12, 2018 November 27, 2018.

Presentation: Poets must be prepared to participate in a poetry reading during the week after submission deadline.  Each poet will have a maximum of 4 minutes to read his or her poem to a panel of judges.  Please keep this in mind when determining poem length.

Theme:  Poems should reflect the theme.

Content:  Please consider the audience to whom the poem is addressed.  While strong language may have a place in poetry, please keep in mind the platform and purpose of the poem that is being written.  The panel of judges reserve the right to disqualify poems considered inappropriate.