Frosted Verse Challenge Winners

Winter’s first frost transforms the world into something magical. For the Frosted Verse Challenge, we prompted poets to capture that fleeting beauty—the shimmer on branches, the silence of dawn, and the arrival of winter.

It’s been freezing here in NYC this past week—the kind of cold that demands extra layers and endless cups of coffee. So, we bundled up, settled in, and immersed ourselves in your incredible submissions. After much deliberation, we’re thrilled to announce the winners who captured the fleeting magic of frost with exceptional artistry and heart.

🏆 $500 Grand Prize Winner: Glaze of the World by Killian

Killian’s poem immerses the reader in a delicate winter wonderland where frost is alive with purpose. The concept of frost as fae working against the dawn is both whimsical and profound, creating a narrative that celebrates winter’s fleeting beauty. The balance between vivid imagery and an imaginative storyline elevated this piece above the rest.

🥈 $200 Second Place: Choir of Ice by Alison McBain

Alison McBain’s poetic harmony mirrors the quiet majesty of frost. The poem’s lyrical quality draws readers into a serene landscape, making them feel the crisp silence of a winter morning. The graceful rhythm and evocative imagery of crystal drops and icy branches made this a deserving Second Place winner.

🎖️ Runners-up: $20 Each

Frost Translations by Tiffany Harris

Tiffany Harris uses the metaphor of a blind glassblower to explore frost as an artist’s medium. The imagery is tactile and transformative, showing how winter reshapes the world. This fresh perspective and creative narrative approach earned this poem a runner-up spot.

Frost Moon by Gina C.

This poem stands out for its evocative storytelling and tender imagery. Gina C. captures the Frost Moon’s mystical glow, weaving themes of love and longing into a compelling winter narrative. The intimate tone and emotional depth made it unforgettable.

This Morning’s Gift by Dana Crandell

Dana Crandell’s poem is a meditation on life’s fragility and resilience, as reflected in the fleeting beauty of frost. The piece invites readers to pause and appreciate the delicate gifts of nature. Its reflective tone and inspiring message secured its place as a runner-up.

h a l l o w e d by Kristen Balyeat

Kristen Balyeat’s minimalist style and precise language create an atmosphere of reverence for winter’s quiet moments. The poem’s understated beauty captures the essence of frost as both sacred and fleeting.

october morning on the marsh by Morgana Miller

Morgana Miller captures the raw beauty of a frost-covered marsh, blending rugged natural imagery with a quiet sense of wonder. The poem’s vivid descriptions and atmospheric tone transport readers to the heart of winter’s serene wilderness.

Vain Frost II by Rachel Deeming

Rachel Deeming’s poem explores the fleeting and vain nature of frost as it adorns the world, only to melt away. Her striking imagery and reflective tone make this a poignant meditation on impermanence.

BRUMAL KISS by Aaron Morrison

Aaron Morrison captures the quiet intimacy of frost in this beautifully understated piece. The poem’s evocative language and delicate rhythm bring to life the fleeting embrace of winter’s chill.

Child of Winter by Cindy Calder

Cindy Calder personifies winter as a child awakening to the world. Her vivid imagery and imaginative approach offer a fresh and heartwarming perspective on the beauty of frost.

Crystalline Veil by Hailey Marchand-Nazzaro

Hailey Marchand-Nazzaro weaves a narrative of stillness and brilliance, painting a vivid picture of frost as a crystalline veil over the landscape. Her intricate descriptions and quiet reverence create an immersive experience for the reader.

A Quietude That Whispers by Patrick Hill

Patrick Hill’s poem captures the calm and whispering beauty of frost-laden mornings. With a focus on the gentle stillness of winter, his work invites readers to pause and listen to the quiet voice of nature.

Winter’s Lace by Sara Little

Sara Little crafts a vivid portrait of frost’s delicate patterns, likening them to lace adorning the natural world. Her poem’s rhythmic flow and precise imagery beautifully capture the artistry of winter’s touch.

Dreamland by Natalie Wilkinson

Natalie Wilkinson’s “Dreamland” takes readers to a frost-kissed world where memories and dreams intertwine. Her evocative language and nostalgic tone create a poignant reflection on the beauty of fleeting moments.

Angel’s Breath by Cathy Holmes

Cathy Holmes’ poem imagines frost as the gentle breath of angels, infusing the landscape with a sacred stillness. Her elegant descriptions and uplifting tone make this piece both soothing and inspiring.

Snow by Nett Cerrato

Nett Cerrato brings to life the quiet power of falling snow, contrasting its unassuming arrival with the transformative beauty it leaves behind. The poem’s simplicity and depth resonate deeply with readers.

Frosted Waking by Nessy Writer

Nessy Writer explores the quiet dawn of a frost-laden morning, capturing the subtle movements of nature as it awakens. The poem’s reflective tone and rich detail transport readers to a serene winter scene.

Explore our current Challenges here: