DISQUIET Prize

Submitting your work

Writers should approach the DISQUIET Prize with an awareness of its dual focus on literary merit and cross-cultural engagement. The prize typically accepts unpublished work in fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, with a preference for pieces that demonstrate a strong sense of voice and place. Before submitting, review past winners (available on the program's website) to gauge the aesthetic range—recent selections have leaned toward lyrical realism and experimental narrative. The reading fee is modest, and the deadline is usually in the spring. Because the prize includes a residency in Lisbon, applicants should be prepared to travel if selected. It is advisable to submit work that has not been heavily workshopped to the point of losing its idiosyncrasy; the judges value freshness and risk over polish. Finally, since the program emphasizes community, consider mentioning in your cover letter any connection to Portuguese-language cultures or international literary interests, though this is not a requirement.