Lantern Light

This Challenge is part of the Vocal+ Fall Poetry Series. Learn more

The Prompt

A lantern can be a guide, a symbol, or a small light in a wide darkness. It might mark a path, guard a memory, or stand as a metaphor for hope, clarity, or longing. Centering your poem on a single lantern invites focus, intimacy, and atmosphere.

The glow could be steady or flickering, comforting or haunting. Whether it lights a room or an idea, let the lantern be the heart of the poem.

Write like you are walking toward it

In order for your submission to qualify, it must be:

• A poem (any style or structure is welcome)
• Between 100 and 500 words.
• Submitted to the Poets community. Your story will be disqualified if it is submitted to any other community.
• Submitted before October 17, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST.
• Your work must be original and unpublished.

The Prizes

• 5 Winners: $200 each
• 15 Runners-up: $15 each
• 10 Honorable Mentions: $5 each

For your story to be eligible, it must be between 100 and 500 words and adhere to our Community Guidelines.

Stories published on Vocal and entered into the Challenge up until October 17, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST will be entered for consideration. Official Rules for the Challenge can be found here.

The Lantern Light Challenge is exclusive to Vocal+ members. To learn more and upgrade to Vocal+, visit https://everydaydealxhub.live/vocal-plus%3C/span%3E%3C/span%3E%3C/span%3E%3C/a%3E.%3C/p%3E%3Cp class="css-1923z11-Text">To be eligible to win, you must be over the age of 13 and reside in a country where Stripe is available at the time of entry. A complete list of countries where Stripe is available can be found here—winners will need a Stripe account created and connected to receive prizes. Entrants located outside of these countries will not be eligible to win.