Where: Poetry Society of America, 119 Smith Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
When: June 22 to June 27
Click here to apply. Applications close February 15.
From January 1 to February 15, 2026, poets are invited to apply to the Poetry Society of America’s inaugural Summer Fellowship session.
The Summer Fellowship, offered free of charge, provides an opportunity for twelve emerging poets to participate in a week-long, intensive writing workshop led by Lynn Melnick at the Poetry Society of America’s headquarters in Brooklyn, New York, from June 22 to June 27, 2026. This Fellowship is open to all poets 18 years of age or older writing primarily in English.
Daily workshop sessions will be supplemented by class visits from prominent poets and editors of New York–based literary magazines, as well as optional field trips. From roughly 11:30–5:00 p.m. for the duration of the Fellowship, Fellows can expect to be occupied with discussing the craft and profession of poetry in a group setting.
During the Fellowship period, Fellows will have access to the Poetry Society of America’s library, office, and back garden to read, write, and convene. The Fellowship will conclude with a garden party at the Poetry Society of America with readings, snacks, and drinks.
Fellows will have the option to join a listserv to remain in contact with other Fellows during and after the workshop.
How to apply:
>> Applications will be accepted via Submittable.
>> Applications consist of a short manuscript of poems (10 pages of poetry) and a cover letter (1 page).
>> The application window is January 1 to February 15. Accepted students will be notified by April 1.
Your application should include:
>> A formal cover letter (one page) addressed to the workshop leader summarizing your background, accomplishments, and reason(s) for applying to the Fellowship.
>> Up to ten pages of original poetry. You must be the sole author of the work you submit. Work made with the assistance of AI or AI tools may not be submitted. You may apply with poems that have been previously published or are forthcoming in journals or chapbooks (please indicate where published poems have appeared). If you are submitting multiple poems, each poem should begin on a new page.
About Lynn Melnick:
Lynn Melnick is the author of three poetry collections, including, most recently, Refusenik, winner of the Julie Suk award, and a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award. She is also the author of the memoir, I've Had to Think Up a Way to Survive: On Trauma, Persistence, and Dolly Parton, most recently out in paperback with Spiegel & Grau. Her poems have appeared in The New Yorker, Poetry, American Poetry Review, New Republic, and A Public Space. She teaches at Princeton University and Columbia University, and lives in Brooklyn with her family. You can find her online at www.lynnmelnick.com.
FAQ
Q: I am a published poet. Am I eligible to apply?
A: Applicants may have publishing credits, including chapbooks and up to one full-length collection of poems. Poets who have published two or more full-length collections of poetry (including self-published volumes) are not eligible to apply.
Q: I have not formally studied poetry. Am I eligible to apply?
A: Yes. This fellowship opportunity is open to all writers regardless of prior educational experiences.
Q: I am a student. Am I eligible?
A: Current undergraduates and MFA students are welcome to apply. Poets must be 18 years or older to participate.
Q: I submitted a ten-page manuscript of poems to a Poetry Society of America Award. May I submit the same manuscript for my Fellowship application?
A: Yes.
Q: Is there a cost to apply?
A: The cost for non-members to apply is $8. Poetry Society Members may apply free of charge.
Q: Is there a cost to attend?
A: No, this is a free intensive workshop.
Q: Is there funding for travel, room, and board?
A: No, the Poetry Society is unable to provide support for these and other expenses Fellows may incur. Fellows must make their own travel and accommodation arrangements in order to attend.
Q: Is there an option to join the cohort remotely?
A: No, this is an in-person learning opportunity at the Poetry Society of America’s headquarters in Brooklyn, New York. There is no option to join the cohort remotely.
Q: Is the Poetry Society headquarters wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. The classroom, library, back yard, and bathroom are wheelchair accessible.
Q: Can I apply to join if I have received an award or Fellowship from the Poetry Society in the past?
A: Yes, past award winners, Chapbook Fellows, et al. are welcome to apply.
