Hm. I’m not sure how I feel about this–it is a contest for a US citizen to go to Mexico and write poetry. I’ve participated in writing retreats like this before, and I often find them to be reliant on the “exotic” tropes that often define US traveler’s experiences (i.e. Spend all your time in hotels! Drink lots of alcohol! Ignore the starving people who aren’t allowed to access the beach you’re on! etc). But at the same time, I think that this might be a really great opportunity for somebody of Mexican descent who can’t otherwise afford to “go back home.”

So do with it what you will. ANd if you win, let us know!

U.S. Poets in Mexico has announced its 2nd annual Mérida Fellowship Award. This award is given annually to one American poet (over 18 years of age) to participate in U.S. Poets in Mexico workshops with tuition and registration fees paid, a hotel room for the week, two day trips, and optional Spanish lessons.

To enter the contest, send 4-6 poems, no more than 6 pages in total, 12 pt. Times New Roman type. Do not put your name or address on submitted poems. Previously published poems will be accepted. Contest submissions will not be returned. Enclose your poems, a check for $25 (entry fee) and the Application. If you are only entering the Mérida Fellowship Award contest and not attending workshops, please check the appropriate box on the Application so that you will not receive email asking for registration and tuition fees.

Mail to:
U.S. Poets in Mexico
P.O. Box 4150
Grand Central Station
New York, NY 10163

Deadline: October 15, 2010
Winner annouced: November 1, 2010
Judge: Maureen Owen

E-mail questions to: uspoetsinmexico@verizon.net

More details available at: http://www.uspoetsinmexico.org/33.html