The prestigious Seán Ó Faoláin International Short Story Competition has opened its doors to submissions from writers worldwide, offering a €2,000 first prize and the opportunity to be featured at the renowned Cork International Short Story Festival.

Running from 1st May through 31st July, the competition invites original, unpublished short stories of up to 3,000 words in English from writers of any nationality. The annual competition, sponsored by the Munster Literature Centre, has established itself as one of Ireland’s premier literary contests, attracting submissions from across the globe.

This year’s judge is Laura Jean McKay, the acclaimed Australian author whose novel “The Animals in That Country” captured the prestigious Arthur C Clarke Award and Victorian Prize for Literature. McKay, currently an Adjunct Lecturer in Creative Writing at Massey University and based in Brisbane, brings considerable expertise to the role. Her recent short story collection “Gunflower” was shortlisted for the 2024 Queensland Literary Awards and named amongst The Guardian’s best books of 2023.

The competition’s first prize winner will receive not only the €2,000 cash award but also a featured reading opportunity at the Cork International Short Story Festival, complete with four-night hotel accommodation and full board. Additionally, the winning story will be published in Southword, the Munster Literature Centre’s literary magazine.

Four runners-up will each receive €400 and publication in Southword, ensuring that multiple talented writers gain recognition and exposure for their work.

Last year’s competition saw Jack Kennedy claim the top prize with his story “Snap,” whilst Rowe Irvin secured second place with “At Times I Hear You Calling.” The competition has consistently showcased emerging and established talent, with previous winners going on to achieve further literary success.

Writers can submit entries either electronically or by post, with an entry fee of €19. Electronic submissions must be sent to sofcomp@munsterlit.ie with anonymised manuscripts and separate cover letters containing contact details and payment confirmation.

The competition accepts submissions on any subject and in any style, with simultaneous submissions permitted. However, organisers stress that no alterations can be made once entries are submitted, and translated works are not eligible.

The Munster Literature Centre, a not-for-profit organisation, uses all funds raised from the competition to benefit writers and writing programmes. Due to the large volume of entries received annually, individual feedback cannot be provided to non-winning submissions.

A shortlist will be announced on the centre’s website by late September or early October, with winners contacted before the public announcement. The competition encourages writers to follow their social media channels or join their mailing list for updates on developments.

With its combination of significant prize money, prestigious platform, and international recognition, the Seán Ó Faoláin International Short Story Competition continues to serve as a vital launching pad for both emerging and established short story writers seeking to make their mark in the literary world.

By Amanda Klopp