THE SECOND POETRY PRIZE WINNER –
WINTER 2019 – 2020
is ABIGAIL ARTHUR
of EASTBOROUGH, KANSAS, USA
“To Vashti of the Old Testament”
By Abigail Arthur
What were you
thinking
when you refused to stand
naked
with only your crown?
Did you know
the cost
As it was
and always will be
others lining up to
take your place
suppliant
without
the strength or will
to refuse
# # #
About the poet:
Abby Arthur is a multi-faceted, complex person with a wide variety of interests. While she values being a mother and a wife, she believes that she is so much more than those two labels. An avid reader with a deep curiosity about people and the world, she has faith in the power of creating and craft as an antidote to the challenges we all face. She is outspoken and fiercely identifies as a feminist. As a feminist, Abby understands that every woman must find her own path in the world, which may or may not include choosing traditional female roles. Her roots in small, midwestern college towns as the daughter of college professors contributed significantly to who she is as a person. Her greatest experiences include meeting Kenny Rogers in person, overcoming a fear of dogs, and taking leaps of faith despite evidence to the contrary. She writes poetry and loves state fairs.
