The Forward Book of Poetry 2026

The judges of the 2025 Forward Prizes for Poetry read hundreds of recent books and individual poems before arriving at this anthology. Celebrating the boldness and variety of today's poets, this collection opens windows into society, culture, and individual lives. The Forward Prizes are the most influential awards for new poetry published in the UK and Ireland. This selection combines fresh voices with familiar names, making the book essential reading for seasoned poetry enthusiasts and new readers alike.