Autumn for Poets

The Vocal+ Fall Poetry Series is a 12-week celebration of poetry. Each week brings a new prompt, focusing entirely on poetic expression. Challenge yourself, connect with a creative community, and compete for over $15,000 in cash prizes.

How to enter:

Become a Vocal+ member

You'll need a Vocal+ subscription to participate in the Vocal+ Fall Poetry Series.

Explore the prompts

All 12 prompts go live on 10/1/2025, focusing entirely on poetry. Each one stays open for a week.

Write and submit

Follow the Challenge prompts and guidelines. Submit your poems before 11:59 PM EST on that prompt's Friday deadline.

Over $15,000 in prizes

We're not just choosing one winner. We're celebrating 360 creators. Every challenge gives more poets more chances to earn recognition and real rewards.

Top 5 Winners

$200

The best of the best that week.

15 Runners-Up

$15

Strong entries that earned a spotlight.

10 Honorable Mentions

$5

Noteworthy entries that deserve recognition.

The Challenges

Here's your fall, mapped out in prompts. 12 distinct themes. One released each week.

Masks We Wear
Submissions close on 10/11

Masks We Wear

Write a poem about disguises, or the truths we keep beneath the surface.

Lantern Light
Submissions close on 10/18

Lantern Light

Write a poem that revolves around a single lantern, literal or metaphorical.

Haunted Echoes
Submissions close on 10/25

Haunted Echoes

Write a spooky or eerie haiku that distills fear or mystery into just three lines.

Poetry of the Hunt
Submissions close on 11/1

Poetry of the Hunt

Write a poem about the hunt and what it means to capture (or miss) the thing you seek.

Letters to the Moon
Submissions close on 11/8

Letters to the Moon

Write your poem as a letter or direct address to the moon.

The Sound of First Frost
Submissions close on 11/15

The Sound of First Frost

Write a sensory-rich poem that captures that transitional moment when autumn tips toward winter.

Harvest of Memory
Submissions close on 11/22

Harvest of Memory

Write a poem on gathering, harvests, memories, or moments you want to keep.

Villanelle of Regret
Submissions close on 12/6

Villanelle of Regret

Write a villanelle about regret, obsession, or longing that won't fade.

Roots and Branches
Submissions close on 12/13

Roots and Branches

Write a poem about roots and branches, what grounds you and what carries you forward.

The Last Flame
Submissions close on 12/20

The Last Flame

Write a poem on endings, using flame or fire as your central image.

FAQs

We've compiled the most important information to help you get the most out of your experience. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us.

Ready to enter the Fall Poetry Series?

12 prompts. 12 weeks. Start writing poetry now.