Poetry Writing Competition Based on Work from African American Authors

The American Library Poetry Writing Competition – for students only

Do you like to write poems or want to write poetry and are just waiting for inspiration? This competition is for you! To commemorate Black History Month, the American Library is organizing a poetry writing competition based on work from African American authors.

Black History Month is observed each February in the United States of America as a time of special awareness of African Americans’ contributions to the nation throughout its history and the contributions of Africans to world history. Public schools focus on important events and individuals related to African American history, many businesses put up special displays, and pop media such as television engage in a month of programming to highlight black history.

The poems given below were written by well-known African American authors Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou. The competition requires you to select one of the three poems and use its theme as inspiration to come up with your own original poem. There are no length or structure requirements for your original poem, but try your best to tie your original poem with the poem you select. Participants can submit as many poems for consideration as they wish. All the participants will be able to present their original poem (s) to a panel of judges. The top three poems will win exciting prizes. Everyone who participates will receive a certificate of participation from the U.S. Consulate, Mumbai.

Important Dates:

  • Date for submission of the poem – Thursday, February 18, 2015
  • Event date – Tuesday, February 23, 2016; 10.00 am – 1.00 pm
  • Poems to be submitted to- Email ID – moopanarsm@state.gov

Poem (Students should select one of the following three poems for inspiration):

  • Poem 1: Let America be America again- Langston Hughes
  • Poem 2: I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings – Maya Angelou Poem
  • 3: Still I Rise – Maya Angelou

Note: For full text please contact the American Library at 26724231/ 4024

For actual flyer, click here. (PDF 485 KB)