National Poetry Month

Blackout Poetry Contest

Unleash your creativity by transforming found text into original poetry!

Blackout poetry is created by selecting words from an existing text (such as a book page or newspaper article) and obscuring the rest to reveal a new poetic work. Let your imagination reshape found language into something entirely your own.

Entry Requirements

• The contest is open to ages 16+.

• Entries must be original blackout poems created from found text sources. 

• Artwork or decorative elements are optional but encouraged.

• Poems should be no longer than one page.

• Recycled book pages will be available at the library for participants to use. Participants may use their own pages. 

Submission Guidelines

• Submit your entry online or in person at the Woodward Public Library.

• Entries can be submitted via email as a photo or PDF to Andrea at adavis@woodward.lib.ok.us with the subject line “Blackout Poetry.”

• Include your name and phone number with your submission. 

• Titles for poems are optional. 

Prizes

• 1st Place: $75

• 2nd Place: $50

• 3rd Place: $25

Important Dates

• Submission Window: April 1–April 25 

• Deadline: Saturday, April 25 

• Winners Announced: By Tuesday, April 28. Entries will be displayed at the library.

Questions? 

Contact Andrea at 580-254-8544 or by email at adavis@woodward.lib.ok.us.

Blackout Poetry Creation Guide

To create blackout poetry, you start with an existing page of text—like a book page or a newspaper article—and highlight only the words that speak to you. By covering up the rest, those remaining words form a brand‑new poem. The limitations of the page often lead to quirky, profound, or playful results. Some pages naturally lend themselves to stronger poems than others, and that’s part of the creative adventure.

There’s no single “correct” way to make blackout poetry, but here are a few steps to help you get started:

Step 1: Scan the page for words or phrases that stand out to you.

Step 2: Lightly circle the words you like in pencil, or jot them down on a separate piece of paper.

Step 3: Begin shaping your poem on a separate piece of paper. Add, remove, or rearrange your selected words to create meaning and flow.

Step 4: Go back to your text page and clearly circle only the words you’ve chosen for your final poem. Erase any earlier circles you won’t be using.

Step 5: Black out the remaining text. Add designs, patterns, or illustrations to complete your poem.