Flint Library brings back ‘joyfully’ bad poetry competition

FLINT, Mich. — As part of its 175th anniversary celebration, the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library is bringing back one of its most unusual and beloved traditions.

The Julia Moore Poetry contest invites the public to come out and celebrate “joyfully” bad poetry.

Julia Moore (1847–1920), was known as “The Sweet Singer of Michigan,” her sentimental and often melodramatic verses became famous for how bad they were. Moore’s poems frequently focused on disasters, tragedy and death, and audiences famously paid to hear her read them aloud.

The contest is one of several special programs planned throughout 2026 to mark the library’s 175 years of service to the Flint community.

Entries will be accepted through March 18, with a winners’ celebration set for Saturday, April 18 at 2 p.m. at the Gloria Coles Flint Public Library, 1026 E. Kearsley St. Winners will have the option to read their poems during the event.

Click here for contest details and online submissions.