Literary Awards & Contests: Are They Worth It for New Authors?

For many new authors, the idea of winning a literary award or contest feels like a golden ticket. It can mean recognition, a career boost, and validation for years of hard work. But are they really worth the time, effort, and often, the submission fees? The answer is a resounding "yes," but with a few caveats.

The Benefits of Submitting

Even if you don't win, submitting your work to literary awards and contests has significant advantages:

1. Motivation and Deadlines: Contests provide firm deadlines that can help you finish your manuscript. Having a clear goal can push you through writer's block and the final stages of revision.

2. Professional Exposure: Many contests have reputable judges and publishers on the lookout for new talent. Even making it to a longlist or shortlist can get your manuscript in front of people who can help your career.

3. Feedback and Validation: Some contests offer feedback on submitted work, which can be invaluable for improving your craft. The simple act of submitting shows that you believe in your work enough to put it out there.

The Growing Recognition of Diverse Voices

Historically, major literary awards have often overlooked marginalized writers. However, the landscape is changing, and many prestigious awards are now actively seeking to recognize diverse voices. This shift has led to well-deserved acclaim for many authors of color, proving that these awards can be powerful platforms for bringing new perspectives to the forefront of literature.

1. N.K. Jemisin made history by winning the Hugo Award for Best Novel three consecutive times for her Broken Earth trilogy, an unprecedented achievement that celebrated her masterful world-building and narrative innovation.

2. Colson Whitehead has won two Pulitzer Prizes for Fiction for his novels The Underground Railroad and The Nickel Boys, demonstrating sustained critical recognition for his exploration of American history and racial injustice.

3. Kazuo Ishiguro, a British novelist of Japanese descent, won the Nobel Prize in Literature, with the Swedish Academy recognizing his novels that "uncovered the abyss beneath our illusory sense of connection with the world."

Are They Right for You?

Literary contests are a gamble, but they are a calculated one. Focus on contests with a good reputation, a mission that aligns with your writing, and judges you respect. While winning isn't guaranteed, the process itself can be a powerful and positive step in your writing career. By taking the chance, you're not just hoping for a prize; you're investing in your own journey as an author.