There's something timeless about poetry — how a single stanza can carry centuries of feeling. In this Pride Month, we're inviting you to write your truth in verse. Whether it's a whisper of self-discovery or a roar of resistance, every line you write adds to a tapestry of voices that matter.

This contest isn't about complexity or rhymes — it's about connection, courage, and creativity. Choose a letter from the LGBTQIA+ spectrum, let it spark your story, and watch your words become light.

Below you'll find the rules, judging criteria, submission link, and all the special category titles we've crafted just for you. Read on, and when you're ready — submit your poem like a love letter to the universe.

🎨 Whether you're a poet of softness or storm, we can't wait to hear you.

📜 RULES TO REMEMBER

Don't forget to give us a follow, add this book to your reading list and give this a shout out before filling up the sign up form!

📝 1. Originality
Your poem must be your own, previously unpublished work.

💌 2. Word Limit
There is no strict word cap — but keep it under 40 lines for ease of judging.

🏷️ 3. Choose a Letter
Select one letter from LGBTQIA+ that inspires your poem. Your poem should connect to that identity or theme — through voice, story, or message.

💫 4. Maximum Two Entries Only
Each participant may submit TWO poems. Choose the one that speaks your truth best.

🕊️ 5. Respect
Any hateful, disrespectful, or harmful content will not be considered. This is a safe, inclusive space.

📅 Submission Deadline: June 23, 2025
📤 Submission Form:
https://forms.gle/YrrQqrQZnaLa9rPP9

🌟 JUDGING CRITERIA

🌈 Relevance to Theme (10 pts)
How well your poem ties to Pride and the selected identity/letter.

🎭 Emotion & Impact (10 pts)
Did the poem move us? Was it heartfelt or powerful?

✍️ Craft & Language (10 pts)
Use of poetic devices, clarity, originality, and voice.

🖤 Authenticity & Boldness (10 pts)
Is your poem daring, honest, and true to your experience?

✨ Bonus (up to 10 pts)
Exceptional creativity, line work, or form!

Total Score: 50 Points

🏆 REWARDS

🥇 Winner:
• Digital Certificate
• Feature on Wattpad & Insta
• "Pride Poet Laureate" Badge

🥈 Runner-Up:
• Certificate 
• Insta shoutout
• Celebration post

Special Mentions:
Digital badges + celebration posts

🎖️ Special Title Awards:

🌟 "Soul Speaker" – Most moving, heartfelt piece
🖊️ "Ink Ally" – Best portrayal of allyship
🏳️‍🌈 "Spectrum Star" – Strongest representation of identity

📌 Frequently Asked Questions — Poetry Edition 🌈

📝 What kind of poetry can I submit?
You can submit free verse, rhymed, prose poetry, spoken word (as text), or any form you prefer. We care more about the message and emotion than structure or form.

📅 What's the deadline for submission?
The final date to submit your poem is June 23rd, 11:59 PM IST. Don't miss it!

🎯 What should my poem be about?
The theme is Pride — write something inspired by any letter of the LGBTQIA+ spectrum. Identity, allyship, struggle, joy, love — your truth is valid and welcome.

🏷️ How do I choose a letter?
Pick any one letter from LGBTQIA+ that speaks to you — whether it's your identity, a friend's, or a cause you support. Your poem should center around or be inspired by it.

💡 Can I submit more than one poem?
Yes, just two submission per person! So send in your best and brightest work.

📄 Do I need to title my poem?
Yes, please! A title helps frame your piece and gives it a unique identity. Untitled entries may lose a few points for presentation.

🎭 Can I write anonymously?
Absolutely! There's an option in the form to let us know if you'd like your name hidden in public shoutouts or results.

🎨 Can I include artwork or formatting in my poem?
We love visual flair, but for judging purposes, keep your formatting simple. If your poem depends on layout, do let us know in the "notes" section of the form.

🏆 How will winners be chosen?
Judges will score based on Creativity, Language, Theme Relevance, and Emotional/Artistic Impact. Full judging criteria are in the previous section.

🥇 What do the winners get?
Top winners will receive certificates, spotlight features, digital stickers, and more! Special category awards like "Ink Ally" and "Soul Speaker" will also be announced.

🌈 What are the special category titles?
We're awarding poems that stand out in areas like emotion, identity, allyship, and impact. Titles include "Soul Speaker," "Ink Ally," "Spectrum Star," and more.

👥 Can I co-write with someone?
For this contest, we are accepting solo entries only to ensure fairness in scoring and visibility.

📣 Will I get feedback on my poem?
We'd love to! While we can't promise individual feedback for all, some top entries or unique pieces may receive personal notes from judges.

📚 Can I post my poem elsewhere?
Yes! You own your poem. Tag us if you post it on Wattpad, Instagram, or anywhere else — we'd love to support and amplify your voice!

❓Still confused?
Feel free to reach out via DMs or the comment section of the contest chapter. We're always here to help 💌

🎉 Everyone who participates will be celebrated through our Wrap-Up Chapter with love and pride — because every voice deserves the spotlight.

💌 From closets to comets, your words carry magic. So let them fly. Let Pride live in your lines.

With you, always,

— The Teen Fix Team 🌈