2026 RRU Springtastic Poetry contest

March 21 marks World Poetry Day, a global celebration of one of our most enduring and illuminating forms of expression. Poetry invites us to see our world anew. 

I am delighted to invite you to take part in the 2026 RRU Springtastic Poetry Contest. This year, I have the pleasure of serving as judge. 

The form: Haiku 

Traditionally rooted in Japanese poetry, haiku captures a brief moment in time, often in nature, through precise imagery and spare language. It is typically written in three lines (often 5–7–5 syllables), though contemporary haiku can be more flexible. 

What matters most is clarity, imagery, and that sudden turn of perception — a small illumination. 

How the contest works 

The contest is open to everyone — students, staff, faculty, associate faculty, alumni, contractors and friends of Royal Roads. 

The challenge? 

Write one haiku. Yes, just one. Your poem should: 

• Be no more than three lines 
• Emphasize imagery over explanation 
• Offer, in some way, a turn or moment of insight 

I will select a winner based on these three things, from a shortlist prepared by a small review committee. 

Submission details

I encourage you not to use AI to write or even review your poem. Part of what makes your poetry — and all your work — meaningful is that it comes from your unique, embodied perspective. We want to read your words, feel your rhythms, and to see what you see. 

Submit your haiku by Sunday, March 15 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time. 

ENTER YOUR POEM HERE

The winner will be announced on World Poetry Day, Thursday, March 21, and will receive an RRU writer’s prize pack available for pick up on campus, including a cozy hoodie, coffee mug, notebooks and more. 

I look forward to reading the moments you choose to share. 

May your lines be brief and brilliant. 

Some inspiration