This April, we ran a poetry contest to celebrate National Poetry Month. We challenged you, our readers, to craft a poem using only the words that appeared in one of our newsletters (here are the original contest guidelines if you want to give it a try).

Turns out, you’re all poets and we didn’t even know it. We were beyond thrilled to read the original, creative, and awe-inspiring poems Nashvillians created from our newsletter copy.

We’re pleased to announce that “Goose on the Loose” by Juliana Claire S. is the winner of our 2023 poetry contest.

This poem received the most votes from our audience. A big round of applause to our other finalists and everyone who participated in our contest — it was a true joy for the NASHtoday Editorial team to read what you came up with.

Now, we’re handing it over to Juliana to dazzle us with their creation.

“Goose on the Loose” by Juliana Claire S.

Ya gain access to a scoop
About a goose
On the loose
Looking for a party and food
Like a pro
This Nashville guest
With gusto
Plans a fest
First tasting the hot chicken
That changed America
Now in Franklin
A happy enchilada
Travel to Broadway on Thursday
Arrived Downtown on Sunday
To celebrate NASHToday’s birthday
Like it’s a delicious holiday

Check out the other finalists' poems below.

“Welcome to Nashville” by Suzanne H.

Welcome to Nashville for a happy holiday
And listen to top musicians on fun Broadway
Fine dining, pizzas and pastas to eat
Your kiddo can enjoy a delicious sweet
Hey don’t forget a Titans game
And a tour of the Country Music Hall of Fame
We recommend the Grand Ole Opry
For performances of originality and quality
Book a vacation to Nashville today
A perfect city to celebrate your next birthday

“Calling All Readers” by Camille T.

Forget erasure.
Enter with gusto and open up today’s track like a poem. Be easier on yourself.
Don’t match the order, mix and turn and pull.
Keep the form interesting.
Include your style (submit to creativity).
Be first, be found.
Be an exception to the rule.
Your direction is up and you are not fair game.
Clarify, craft, contest.
Honor is simple, your name.