Once Written: Twice Wise

In the competitive field of poetry publishing, it is extremely challenging to win awards and publish books, even for writers who’ve been laboring long at the trade. But apparently not for Weston Wise, a Breckenridge senior majoring in English and Anthropology, who just received news that his most recent poetry manuscript—and the second this year—has won an award and been accepted for publication.

Wise’s new chapbook, The Songs of the Long Land, will be published by Beyond Words Magazine in February of 2024.

“It feels unreal,” said Wise. “The name of the press describes it well: Beyond Words.”

In Spring 2023, Weston’s chapbook, A Gentle and Modern Ape, was selected by the National Federation of State Poetry Societies (NFSPS) in their College Undergraduate Poetry Competition as a winner of the Edna Meudt Memorial Award (PDF).

"Securing publication for not just one but two chapbook manuscripts with reputable publishers is an astounding accomplishment for an undergraduate," said poet and Department of English Language and Literature faculty member Jeffrey Bean. "Weston is on fire!"

In October, Weston read his poetry as a featured student at the Wellspring Literary Series. Founded by poet and English Professor Robert Fanning, this annual series features Michigan poets and musicians at Art Reach of Mid Michigan in downtown Mount Pleasant.

“Weston’s smart, bold, witty poems draw on a range of subjects and are widely appealing," said Fanning. "This is only the beginning of his successes.” 

To summarize? Look to the skies for Weston Wise. He’s another CMU poet on the rise. 

Visit our website to learn more about CMU's Creative Writing minor, undergraduate certificate, or master's degree or contact the English Department at 989-774-3171.