The 2021 Debut Prize

As a literary magazine that supports and amplifies new voices, Touchstone understands how hard it is for emerging writers to enter the publishing world for the first time. The Debut Prize is set to usher writers into the gate and celebrate their debut in the literary community.

The Debut Prize in Poetry and Fiction recognizes one poem and one short story, both from never-published writers, with a $50 cash award for each contributor. In addition to paid publication, the winning writers receive an original broadside art piece inspired by their work, exclusively designed by a talented artist.

This year, our editorial team has selected Emery Ann’s “Birth of Venus” as the winner of the Debut Prize in Poetry, and Ariana Tucker’s “Hollow” as the winner of the Debut Prize in Fiction. The custom broadsides inspired by these pieces were designed by our guest artist, Chailey Marr. You can read the winning pieces and view the broadsides by clicking on the links below.

A huge congratulations to Emery and Ariana for their first publications in their respective genres!