Literary Journal

Omnidawn Publishing Open Poetry Book Contest

Closes in 10 days

Journals & literary magazines1 open opportunity listed

About the magazine

Omnidawn Publishing, founded in 2001 by Rusty Morrison and Ken Keegan, is an independent literary press based in Richmond, California, dedicated to publishing innovative poetry, fiction, and nonfiction that challenges conventional forms and expands the possibilities of language. The press has earned a reputation for its meticulously designed books and its commitment to fostering a community of writers who prioritize experimentation and intellectual rigor. The Omnidawn Open Poetry Book Contest, one of the press's flagship annual competitions, reflects this ethos by seeking manuscripts that demonstrate formal daring, emotional depth, and a distinctive voice. Winning the contest not only secures publication but also integrates the poet into Omnidawn's curated list of authors who are redefining contemporary literature.

Submitting your work

Reading periodCloses in 10 days

Before submitting to the Omnidawn Open Poetry Book Contest, carefully review the press's catalog to understand the aesthetic range they publish—work that is often lyrical, conceptually driven, and attentive to the materiality of language. Ensure your manuscript is complete and polished, as the competition is highly competitive. Follow submission guidelines precisely: typically, this includes a reading fee, a specific page count, and anonymous formatting. Simultaneous submissions are usually permitted, but notify the press immediately if your manuscript is accepted elsewhere. Given the volume of submissions, patience is required; response times can be several months. Use the waiting period to refine your work or prepare other projects.

Submission calls

1 listed

OpenDeadline · 2026-10-16