We receive frequent requests to provide ideas as to what kind of poem is most likely to "do well" in the contests. We have developed the following guidelines for understanding what the judges will be looking for in the poems that are entered in a contest. Keep in mind that few poems will follow all of these ideas.

—Suggestions— 

1. Composition

• An artistic combination of the elements of poetry in verse that evokes a strong reader response

2. Meaningful Content

• Clear and appropriate topic
• Understandable, coherent structure
• Emotional impact

3. Natural Language

• Original personal style
• Clarity of author’s voice
• Avoidance of grammatical distortions
• Avoidance of clichés and trite phrases           

4. Imagery

• Vivid description
• Figurative language — may include use of metaphor, simile, personification, allusion, and other poetic devices appropriate to the subject.

5. Precise Word Choice

• Specific rather than general vocabulary
• Concise, omitting unnecessary words and phrases
• Expression suitable for publication

6. Effective Sound Patterns

    Preferably uses some forms of

• Rhyme, alliteration, assonance, other unforced devices
• Metrical pattern
• Line length pattern
• Repetitive form

7. Humor   (where appropriate)

• Comic style and effect, using incongruity
• May include puns, exaggeration, distortion, parody
• Elicits laughter

8. Mechanics

• Legibility
• Correct grammar
• Correct spelling