From hundreds of poems, our editors selected ten finalists to be sent to the judge, Gloria Munoz. She had a difficult time choosing from this wonderful group, but ultimately selected these to single out:

First place: Jen Karetnik, “Too brief again, this August light”

“Mesmerizing and vivid, this poem will sink you to the ocean’s depths. A study of grief told in a weaving of close observations, ‘Too brief again, this August light’ uncovers images that awe and haunt.”

Second place: Tarn Wilson, “Wanted: Lighthouse Keeper”

“’Wanted: Lighthouse Keeper’ is the kind of classified ad that makes you reconsider your relationship to becoming. An ode to braving storms alone and, when needed, being a refuge for others.”