River Paw Press has officially announced Ed Ruzicka as the distinguished winner of the 2026 Silent River Poetry Prize. Ruzicka received the top honor for his chapbook, "The Language of Wind Over Water," with the announcement coming in July 2026. The poetry publisher also recognized James Lilliefors as a finalist and Nancy Mohr as a semi-finalist in this year's competitive literary event.
The selection of "The Language of Wind Over Water" by Ed Ruzicka marks a significant achievement in the contemporary poetry landscape. His winning chapbook was lauded by River Paw Press, the organizing body behind the annual literary award. Chapbooks, often concise collections of poetry, serve as a vital format for poets to share their work and gain recognition within the literary community.
Beyond the top prize, the 2026 Silent River Poetry Prize also acknowledged other notable submissions. James Lilliefors was named the finalist for his chapbook, titled "The Staggering Sum," indicating a strong showing in the competitive field. Additionally, Nancy Mohr earned the distinction of semi-finalist for her work, "Mute Gospel." These recognitions underscore the breadth of talent evaluated by the prize committee.
The Silent River Poetry Prize, organized by River Paw Press, is an established award designed to highlight exceptional poetic voices. Its annual cycle provides a platform for both emerging and established poets to gain critical acclaim for their contributions to the literary arts. The July 2026 announcement confirms the successful conclusion of another selection process, celebrating literary excellence.
Ed Ruzicka's win for "The Language of Wind Over Water" positions him as the latest recipient of this esteemed poetry accolade, joining a roster of poets celebrated by River Paw Press. The prize continues its mission to foster and recognize compelling poetic works.