Maggie Burton Wins 2024 Canadian First Book Prize for Poetry Collection 'Chores'

St. John's city councillor and professional violinist Maggie Burton has been awarded the 2024 Canadian First Book Prize for her debut poetry collection 'Chores'. The prestigious award, administered by the Griffin Poetry Prize, comes with a $10,000 prize and a six-week residency in Italy, courtesy of the Civitella Ranieri Foundation.

Burton's poetry collection 'Chores' has been described by judges as both 'traditional and inventive'. Her work explores themes of women's domestic labor, sexuality, and relationships through a queer, feminist, and working-class lens. The judges, Albert F. Moritz, Jan Wagner, and Anne Waldman, praised her book, stating that it 'combines qualities that seem effortless but are not only the innate fruit of a vision but the result of skillful poetic design.'

Maggie Burton is currently serving her second term as councillor-at-large in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. In addition to her work as a city councillor, she is a professional violinist and holds a bachelor of music degree from Memorial University. She has also worked with the Suzuki Talent Education Program and the Newfoundland Orchestra.

The Canadian First Book Prize recognizes the best debut poetry collection by a Canadian or permanent resident of Canada published in English in the previous year. Burton is only the second recipient of this prize, which was established after the Griffin Poetry Prize combined its Canadian and international categories into one global winner.

Burton's book 'Chores' was one of 43 submissions for the prize, which is now in its second year. Cree poet Emily Riddle was the inaugural winner of the prize for her collection 'The Big Melt' (Nightwood Editions).

As part of her award, Burton will be invited to read from her book at the Griffin Poetry Prize readings, scheduled to take place on June 5, 2024, in Toronto. This event will feature readings from all finalists, offering a platform for emerging poets to showcase their work.

The Canadian First Book Prize is a prestigious award that highlights outstanding debut poetry collections. By recognizing new voices in poetry, the award aims to promote the development of emerging Canadian poets.

Maggie Burton's recognition with the 2024 Canadian First Book Prize for her collection 'Chores' marks a significant milestone in her literary career. Her work's inventive and traditional qualities have set her apart in Canadian poetry.

Key Takeaways

• Maggie Burton wins 2024 Canadian First Book Prize for debut poetry collection "Chores".
• She receives $10,000 and a 6-week residency in Italy.
• Burton is a St. John's city councillor and professional violinist.
• Her poetry explores women's labor, sexuality, and relationships through a queer lens.
• Burton will read at the Griffin Poetry Prize readings in Toronto on June 5, 2024.