‘Accidental Historian’ poetry contest seeks entries

The Orange County Regional History Center is hosting a poetry contest to promote its upcoming exhibition, “The Accidental Historian,” which opens at the downtown Orlando museum Sept. 21.

The prompt for entries, “Life in Central Florida Today,” reflects the exhibition’s theme that artists, photographers, poets and others become the historians for the future simply by doing what they love in the present – recording life around them.

“At the History Center, we’ve often said that, every day, we each build the future history of Central Florida, and ‘The Accidental Historian’ will bring that idea to life in creative, fascinating ways,” Michael Perkins, museum director, said.

Poets and writers of all levels of experience are asked to submit their poems and flash prose.

“Write about how you see and feel about Central Florida right now,” Perkins said. “How would you narrate life today to those living more than 100 years from now?”

After submissions are received, judges will select a winner from each category from blind submissions.

The winning entry will be included in ‘The Accidental Historian’ exhibition and will be published in the History Center’s magazine, “Reflections.” The winners will also have the opportunity to read their poem at the History Center’s Poetry Night, a public event presented in conjunction with the exhibit. 

Poetry is limited to 20 lines, and flash prose submissions must be no more than 500 words. Children and teens must indicate if they are submitting for the youth contest for ages 17 and younger.

Submit poems by email to [email protected] by Aug. 23.