Static

The Prompt

Static is easy to recognize but harder to explain. It can be noise, texture, tension, interruption, or the feeling of a connection that won't quite come through.

Use the prompt as a starting point rather than a definition. Your poem might explore radio interference, charged air, restless energy, crossed signals, or something unresolved beneath the surface.

Let sound, rhythm, imagery, and form carry the sensation. Whatever static means in your poem, make it something the reader can hear, see, or feel.

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

• A poem (any style or structure is welcome)
• Between 100 and 600 words.
• Submitted to the Poets community. Your story will be disqualified if it is submitted to any other community.
• Submitted before August 7, 2026 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• Your work must be original and unpublished.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 100 and 600 words and adhere to our Community Guidelines.

Stories published on Vocal and entered into the Challenge up until August 7, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST will be entered for consideration. Official Rules for the Challenge can be found here.

The Static 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.