Letter from the Editors

Poetry On Demand Chapbook 2025 | Tessa Kats-Rodgers & Olivia Shin

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Dear Readers,

A chapbook is a small collection of literature—most often poetry—meant to be read in one sitting. Traditionally, chapbooks compile the works of one poet, pinpointing their creative vision into a brief space. This one, however, gathers a chorus of voices—indeed, a polyphony. Our chapbook, our brainchild, came to be through Poetry On Demand—an innovative event encouraging collaboration among a team of creatives. Guided by Eric Plattner, founder of the adult poetry collective Poems While You Wait, our team of international youth poets worked under the imagined constraints of street poetry—short pieces, written in around 20 minutes—to raise money for Polyphony Lit’s continued, thriving existence. To our patrons who paired their generosity with clever prompts, we owe immense thanks. To our poets who rose to the occasion, blending a given vision with their own ingenious flair, you are the true visionaries, the true not-so-street poets. Together, poets, patrons, and readers alike have made this chapbook possible, along with the near $3,500 amassed. All we can say, in our finest literary fashion, is thank you, thank you, thank you.

Upon first reading the poems from our talented group of peers, we noted the vast range in form, structure, and flair. From across the globe, these poets’ shared commitment culminated in the chapbook before you now. As you leaf through this bounty of creativity, we invite you to experience the unmistakable care put into each piece, leaving new impressions with every turn. For us, the selection committee, sorting through the dozens of poems was no easy task. Some made us smile, some made us laugh, and others stilled us into quiet reflection. In the end, we were able to represent each poet who contributed to the event and highlight the diversity of thought among us.

 

That sense of abundance carried into our own experiences as members of the Poetry On Demand team. There is a particular joy in creating for others, rather than solely for oneself—a particular freedom in those minutes spent pouring words onto the page. Within this constellation of youth poets, there was always an atmosphere of uplift and fulfillment, found in collaborations, midday jam sessions, and continuously flowing praise. Inside these pages, you will unearth gems both small and grand; from the sizzling description of an American Breakfast to a tender story of motherhood, you will be enthralled, entranced, and, most certainly, inspired. We hope you enjoy reading these selections as much as we enjoyed composing them. 

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Yours in creativity,

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Tessa Kats-Rodgers & Olivia Shin