Aiken Taylor Award for Modern American Poetry

えいけん-ていらーしょう（きんだいアメリカししょう）

Annual award honoring long-standing outstanding achievements in modern American poetry. Operated by Sewanee Review and University of the South.

PoetryAmerican PoetryLifetime Achievement Award

Established: 1987
Organizer: Sewanee Review / University of the South
Category: Poetry and Contemporary Poetry
Selection Method: Recommendation
Target: Professional
Frequency: 1 per year
Status: Active

Description

The Aiken Taylor Award for Modern American Poetry was established by a bequest from K.P.A. Taylor and is operated by the Sewanee Review and University of the South. It is awarded to a poet who has had a career of distinguished and outstanding achievement over many years. Awards have been given annually since inception in 1987 (with some exceptional years).

Prize

Main Prize: Prestigious award for lifetime achievement

Selection

Selection Process

Stage	Judges	Pass Rate	Announcement
Selection (by committee)	Sewanee Review editorial board and University of the South selection committee	—	Winners are announced on the Sewanee Review official website and university press releases

Selection (by committee)

Judges Sewanee Review editorial board and University of the South selection committee

Announcement Winners are announced on the Sewanee Review official website and university press releases

Criteria

Distinguished and outstanding poetic career over many years
Qualitative excellence of poetry (literary value)
Contributions and influence to modern American poetry

Application Tips

Dos

First, check the official website for application/nomination eligibility and procedures
Since the award targets long-term achievements, clearly present career history and publication list (for nominations)
Prepare recommendation letters or explanations by referencing past winners' achievements and published works

Don''ts

Attempting to apply based solely on short-term activity records (this award emphasizes long-term achievements)
Relying only on direct inquiries without following official procedures (check regulations first)
Listing award history or publication information that differs from facts

From Judges

This award evaluates long-term outstanding contributions. Please evaluate candidates from the perspective of quality and influence.
Please ensure submitted materials are accurate and verifiable (publication lists, award history, etc.).