Joyce Kilmer Memorial Annual Bad Poetry Contest
Beginning in 1986, the Philolexian Society has hosted this open-to-the-public event in honor of Alfred Joyce Kilmer (Class of 1908), vice president of the society and the author of "Trees." Contestants read their wittiest and worst original poetry, hoping for cheers and the title of Poet Laureate. The event, which regularly draws 200 people or more, generally takes place a week before Thanksgiving.
Only one student has won the competition twice: Everett Patterson, Columbia College '06, who took first prize in 2003 and 2005.
Read more about this topic: Columbia University Traditions
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