Yes, we did compare to other coinotmtieps, but judging a pamphlet, rather than a poet, usually requires a higher entry fee. We wanted the competition to be open to as many people as possible, regardless of financial ability. It isn't a pamphlet competition in the same way other contests are, where entrants have their whole pamphlet judged - it's a competition that wins the chance to work on a pamphlet and have it published and well promoted.The organiser, Ruth O'Callaghan, felt that if a person could write one poem of the right standard then they should be able to work with me over a period of time to produce a good pamphlet. This also adds value to the prize, as they get a full critique service and find out what it's like to work with an editor. In this way we can give a valuable prize, while giving all the money raised to the homeless by giving our time and work for free. It has worked so far and I would let the winner take as long as they need. The first two have produced good books in time for a November launch, with the first winner (Caroline Squire) going on to study for an MA with Jo Shapcott and Andrew Motion, and the second (Bob Cooper) producing a very successful chapbook.
by Binh 09:48:20 AM 2013.10.24 |