Michael Ondaatje among finalists for $10K prize for established Canadian poets
Renowned Canadian poet Michael Ondaatje has been named as one of the five finalists for the prestigious 2025 Al & Eurithe Poetry Prize. This annual award, now in its second year, recognizes the outstanding new book by a Canadian poet who has already published five or more poetry collections. The winner of the prize will receive $10,000 in recognition of their literary achievement.
Ondaatje’s nomination is for his latest poetry collection, “A Year of Last Things”, marking his highly anticipated return to the world of poetry. Drawing on his personal experiences, this poignant collection delves into the borders he has crossed throughout his life with imagery that is both witty, moving, and wise. The book has already garnered critical acclaim for its lyrical beauty and emotional depth.
A literary icon in Canada, Ondaatje has achieved international recognition for both his novels and poetry. He made history as the first Canadian to win the prestigious Booker Prize in 1992 for his novel “The English Patient”. Born in Sri Lanka and educated in England, Ondaatje moved to Canada at the age of 18 to pursue his university education.
Ondaatje’s literary career began in 1967 as a poet, winning two Governor General’s Literary Awards for his poetry before transitioning to fiction writing. Throughout his illustrious career, he has been honored with accolades such as the Giller Prize and France’s esteemed Prix Medicis.
Joining Ondaatje on the shortlist are four other talented poets: Brian Bartlett for “The Astonishing Room”, Tim Bowling for “In the Capital City of Autumn”, A.F. Moritz for “Great Silent Ballad”, and Harold Rhenisch for “The Salmon Shanties”. The selection of the shortlist was made by a panel of distinguished writers, including Laisha Rosnau, Sam Solecki, and Sid Marty, who was the previous year’s winner of the prize.
The Al & Eurithe Poetry Prize was established in honor of the late poet Al Purdy, a Canadian literary figure known for his profound contributions to the world of poetry. The winner of the prize will be announced on April 21, 2025, marking the 25th anniversary of Purdy’s passing. Purdy, who published over 30 poetry collections, received numerous accolades during his career, including two Governor General’s Literary Awards for poetry.
For poetry enthusiasts interested in submitting their work for recognition, the 2025 CBC Poetry Prize is currently open for submissions from April 1 to June 1. Writers can submit original, unpublished poems or collections of poems for a chance to win $6,000 from the Canada Council for the Arts, a two-week writing residency at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, and have their work published on CBC Books. It’s a wonderful opportunity for emerging poets to showcase their talent and connect with a wider audience.
