Maps of the Self

The Prompt

We all carry maps. Of places we've been. People we've known. Versions of ourselves we’re still trying to understand.

This Challenge invites you to chart something that can’t be seen on a page. A memory. A relationship. A shift within. Draw the shape of it through story, reflection, or lived experience.

Write like you’re tracing a path only you could follow.

In order for your submission to qualify, it must be:

• A personal essay, memoir, or reflective piece.
• Between 500 and 2,500 words.
• Submitted to the Humans community. Your story will be disqualified if it is submitted to any other community.
• Submitted before November 19, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST.
• Your work must be original and unpublished.

The Prizes

• 5 Winners: $200 each
• 15 Runners-up: $15 each
• 10 Honorable Mentions: $5 each

For your story to be eligible, it must be between 500 and 2,500 words and adhere to our Community Guidelines.

Stories published on Vocal and entered into the Challenge up until November 19, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST will be entered for consideration. Official Rules for the Challenge can be found here.

The Maps of the Self Challenge is exclusive to Vocal+ members. To learn more and upgrade to Vocal+, visit https://vocal.media/vocal-plus.

To be eligible to win, you must be over the age of 13 and reside in a country where Stripe is available at the time of entry. A complete list of countries where Stripe is available can be found here—winners will need a Stripe account created and connected to receive prizes. Entrants located outside of these countries will not be eligible to win.