Ploughshares Literary Journal

The Emerging Writer's Contest is open to writers of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry who have yet to publish or self-publish a book. One winner in each genre per year will receive $2,000 and publication in the literary journal.

You are eligible if you:

-Have not published a book or chapbook in any genre.
-Have no book or chapbook forthcoming before April 15, 2026.
-Are not currently affiliated with Emerson College or with Ploughshares as a volunteer screener, intern, student, staff member, or faculty member.
-Will not have a relationship with Emerson College before April 15, 2026 (example: if there is a chance you will attend the Emerson MFA program in the coming year or if your work has been accepted for publication for an upcoming issue).

Emerging Writer’s Contest

Please read contest details carefully before submitting.

We accept fiction and nonfiction up to 6,000 words.

We accept 3-5 pages of poetry. Excerpts of longer works are welcome if self-contained.

Emerging Writer’s Contest

Additional info

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