How can I inspire people to enter a poetry competition?

Question

I'm running a poetry competition in the magazine I work for and I need to write a couple of lines to inspire people of all ages to enter. I would like to encourage people who love poetry and people who maybe have never written a poem before. Can you help? What would inspire you to enter a poetry competition?

Answer 1

Check out other Poetry Contests. you will get an idea how others are organizing

Poetry contests

http://www.bigfatprize.com/index.php?pag...

Answer 2

Sadly, the answer above is probably true. People who aren't natural poets need the incentive.

On a more positive note, I'd suggest that you encourage them by using an example of bad poetry (see my link and laugh). Many people write poetry that never sees the light of day from fear of ridicule etc. If you show them that there are worse poets out there, who knows? You might just get a few more entrys.

Answer 3

Perhaps you can convince a publisher of poetry, like Tangled Web Press, to publish the winning poem.  It is my understanding that they are always looking for new talent.  Maybe their publisher would like to discuss an arrangement with you...

Answer 4

I'm thinking "Cash Prize." The more zeros the better...

Answer 5

Ah... a marketing meets poetry contest.  I always thought I should have been in marketing.  Let's see if I can think of something.

Well I don't know the scope of what kind of add you're able to write, whether or not it's just a few words or lines or a picture add.  

Maybe do it as a dictionary entry for the word "poetry".

__________

po·et·ry - noun (1) a rhyme or rap applied to paper.  (2) therapy for your soul.

COME RAP TO YOUR SOUL!!!

(insert details here)

__________

If i think of anything else I'll let you know...