The Griffin Poetry Prize, one of the world's most prestigious poetry awards, has reinstated the Canadian award category while keeping the larger international purse, according to an announcement by publisher-philanthropist Scott Griffin.
Background of the Prize
The Griffin Poetry Prize was established in 2000 by Scott Griffin, a Canadian publisher and philanthropist, to recognize excellence in poetry. Originally, the prize featured two categories: Canadian and International. However, in 2024, the trustees decided to merge the categories into a single international award with a significantly larger purse, sparking debate within the literary community.
Reinstatement of the Canadian Category
After widespread feedback from poets, publishers, and literary organizations, the Griffin Trust has decided to reinstate the Canadian award. The Canadian category will carry a purse of CAD 65,000, while the international category will retain its increased prize of CAD 130,000. This decision aims to balance the recognition of Canadian poetic talent with the global reach of the prize.
Scott Griffin stated, "We listened to the community and understand the importance of having a dedicated Canadian award. This change allows us to celebrate both national and international voices in poetry."
Impact on the Poetry Community
The reinstatement has been welcomed by many Canadian poets. The Writers' Union of Canada praised the move, noting that it reaffirms the value of Canadian literature on the world stage. The international category, with its larger purse, continues to attract submissions from around the globe, ensuring the prize remains competitive and prestigious.
The Griffin Poetry Prize has a history of honoring diverse voices. Past winners include luminaries such as Margaret Atwood, Anne Carson, and Alice Oswald. The prize also funds readings and events, promoting poetry to broader audiences.
Future of the Prize
Looking ahead, the Griffin Trust plans to increase outreach to Indigenous and emerging poets. The 2027 awards will see the first winners under the new structure. The deadline for submissions is December 31, 2026, with winners announced in June 2027.
For more details, visit the official Griffin Poetry Prize website.
