This is contemporary poetry. This is The Forward Book of Poetry.

The Forward Prizes are the most influential awards for new poetry published in the UK and Ireland. This selection combines fresh voices with familiar names, making the book essential reading for seasoned poetry enthusiasts and new readers alike.

The judges of the 2025 Forward Prizes for Poetry - comprising poets Romalyn Ante, W. N. Herbert, Michael Mullen and Yomi ?ode and chaired by celebrated author Sarah Moss - read hundreds of recent books and individual poems before arriving at this anthology. Their selections celebrate the diversity and innovation of poetry today, offering readers explorations of society, culture and personal experience.