‘Correlation’ by Oliver Berry was named as one of the shortlisted poems in the Happiful Poetry Prize 2025. Here, Oliver Berry reflects on the everyday moments that can be transformed into poetry, along with practical insight on editing your words.…
16 posts tagged
POETRY
Runner-up: Emma-Jane Barlow on writing poetry inspired by nature
Where The Light Gets In’ by Emma-Jane Barlow was named as one of the shortlisted poems in the Happiful Poetry Prize 2025. Here, Emma-Jane reflects on how nature inspires her work as well as providing practical tips for budding poets.…
Runner-up: Becky Bennetts on poetry as a healing act
Becky Bennetts was named as one of the shortlisted poets in the Happiful Poetry Prize 2025. She reflects on the abusive marriage that inspired the poem, and how writing it was an act of healing.…
Winner: Val Ormrod on how she wrote her award-winning poem, 'Breathing Free'
Named as winner in the Happiful Poetry Prize 2025, Val Ormrod opens up about finding inspiration, the power of writing groups, and letting things percolate.…
What makes a winning poem? Last year’s judges tell us what made them say ‘Yes!’
Just in time for the 2026 Happiful Poetry Prize, last year's judges share how vivid imagery and raw emotional honesty contribute to a winning poem.…
7 tips from writers on getting started with poetry
From self-imposed constraints to getting to the heart of your message, these creative tips are designed for budding poets who need help putting pen to paper…
The Happiful Poetry Prize 2025: Celebrating the winning and shortlisted poets
Prepare to be inspired and in awe of this year’s Happiful Poetry Prize winning and shortlisted talent…
Runner-up: Anthony Leyton on piecing a poem together
Named as one of the runners-up in the Happiful Poetry Prize 2024, Anthony Leyton reflects on bringing ideas together to create a poem…
Runner-up: Éloïse O’Dwyer-Armary on writing poetry about mental illness
Named as a runner-up in the Happiful Poetry Prize 2024, Éloïse reflects on writing from a place of curiosity and what it means to be a ‘poet’…