Writers write because we are driven. Other than fulfilling an inherent need, however, we also have goals. Maybe it’s to earn money, polish our craft, or share a story. Sometimes it’s to find other writers who get it, or simply to tell the world that we are writers.
I’m a strong advocate of using writing contests to achieve those goals. And there’s still time to enter the 2024 Royal Palm Literary Awards (RPLA) sponsored by the Florida Writers Association. Entry fees range from $40 – $90 (based on genre category and date of entry), plus FWA membership ($59 per year).
Non-Floridians are welcome. Entries close April 30.
RPLA is a prestigious competition that recognizes extraordinary writing in 20+ genre categories that include published, unpublished, short- and book-length works, fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
The RPLA, however, is as much about writing as it is winning. Each entry is reviewed by at least two judges according to genre-specific rubrics, as outlined in “The RPLA Judging Highlights.”
Each rubric is broken down into 10 criteria, worth 10 points each. Each score is justified with detailed comments designed to help authors improve their writing. Entrants receive the assessments within 30 days of the announcement of winners.
In my opinion, that alone is worth the entry fee.
Why Spend the Time and Money?
While writing contests are not solely about prizes, a winning entry boosts your self-esteem, enhances your resume, and widens your professional contacts.
According to Page Turner Awards, there are seven reasons to compete:
- Writing Experience
- Writing Exposure
- Potentially Winning an Award
- Contests Get You Writing
- Entry Could Go Wide
- You Could Earn a Mentor
- Motivation
If not the RPLA, find a contest that suits your needs as a beginner or a pro. One of the best resources is Submittable, a free online platform that lists thousands of contests, creative calls, grants, fellowships, scholarships, residencies, and other opportunities.
While writing is a lonely pursuit, a writing competition offers camaraderie—and, if you win, a sense that all the blood, sweat, and tears have been worth it.
Enter a contest. Stick with the winners.
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