1455's First Annual Young Poets Anthology: Coming June 2026!
A generation we talk about, speaking for itself
A new generation is writing its way forward. 1455's Young Poets Anthology showcases powerful and original work from writers under 21 across the globe—all exploring the theme of hope in brave and often unexpected ways. These poems challenge us to interrogate what it means to believe in something better, and how imagination and empathy will guide us forward. As one of the inaugural titles from 1455 books, this collection represents a commitment to accessibility, authenticity, and the future of literary culture. Discover the voices that are shaping what comes next.
ABOUT
1455’s first Young Poets Anthology brings together powerful, original work from writers under 21 across the globe, each exploring the theme of hope in bold and unexpected ways. As one of the inaugural titles from 1455 books, this collection reflects a commitment to accessibility, authenticity, and the future of literary culture.
Featuring poets ranging from ages 10 through 21, these diverse voices grapple with the world as it is, and imagine a better future. These poems question what hope means in 2026, what it will mean in a year, or one hundred years. Where can hope be found? How can it be nurtured or repaired? These poets express uncertainty, confidence, resilience, and renewal, offering deeply personal reflections about holding on to hope, encouraging it in our communities, and using creativity and empathy to sustain it. In the spirit of Emily Dickinson’s image of hope as “the thing with feathers,” this anthology invites readers to consider their own definitions, and to witness how a new generation gives voice to possibility.
1455’s Young Poets Anthology is not simply a collection of extraordinary poems—it’s a living document to the power of young voices. In a changing world filled with uncertainty, these writers provide clarity and courage, and occasionally articulate new ways to see a future that’s at once inclusive and filled with opportunity. This work will endure as a snapshot of today’s realities, and a blueprint for ways we might move forward with purpose and peace. This book seeks to amplify myriad perspectives, connect readers across cultures, and serve notice that the next generation of literature is not only here now, but ready to help and inspire us.
“The theme of this anthology is hope—not as optimism, but as something complex, honest, and hard-won. We invited young poets around the world to explore what hope looks like today, and the work they produced expands how we understand and create it. I’m proud to feature such an extraordinary group of young writers.”
-Sean Murphy, Executive Director, 1455 Literary Arts
CONTRIBUTORS
Why It Matters
Emerging voices with clarity
Not commentary about young people—this is their work, in their own words, responding to the world.
Hope, without clichés
These poems don’t offer easy optimism. They explore hope as complex, uncertain, and hard-won.
Real literary credibility
Introduction by Presidential Inaugural Poet Richard Blanco shows this work is being taken seriously.
A rare first publication moment
For many contributors, this is the first time seeing their work professionally published and shared at scale.
A window into a global generation
Voices from nine countries offer a rare, firsthand look at how young people are thinking and feeling right now.
Unfiltered, not overproduced
The work isn’t shaped by trends or market expectations—it’s direct and personal.
Breaking past traditional publishing limits
No financial barrier to entry
Writers submitted and were published at no cost, removing one of the biggest publishing barriers.
No traditional publishing gatekeeping
Work was selected on merit, not connections, credentials, or market positioning.
A model designed to promote, not just release
This project is designed to be seen: it’s supported by a full campaign across media, social, and community.
Releasing on June 23, 2026!
To learn more about this anthology, visit https://1455litarts.org/ypa/!