The Michael Madsen Poetry Award 2026
We’re pleased to announce that submissions are now open for the inaugural Michael Madsen Poetry Award, a new annual prize dedicated to celebrating poetry that embodies a specific kind of truth.
Presented by Low Hanging Fruit Magazine and Kalvin M. Madsen, this award recognizes verse that cuts to the bone—work that is honest, uncompromising, and born from lived experience. We are seeking narratives that don’t shy away from the hard realities of life but instead confront them with a clear, resonant voice. This is for the poetry that explores the shadows, finds beauty in forgotten places, and reveals the stories whispered on street corners and in the quiet, bruised moments of life.
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The 2026 contest has officially begun. All entries will be judged by the Madsen Brothers and the editorial staff of Low Hanging Fruit Magazine.
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LHF is an ambitious and young publishing company ran by four unpaid editors. Our mission has always been to promote under-published artists, and instill in them a believe that their work deserves to be seen.
But, like so many worth-while goals, there is no money in it. Our laundry list of expenses towers over our profits, and so we are extending an opportunity to support us. Any amount of money you send makes a difference. Even just a couple bucks. Thank you!
1957 - 2025
Remembering Michael Madsen
Michael Madsen, the Legendary actor and poet, was also the father of our editor in Chief, Kalvin M. Madsen (AKA Calvin Michael Madsen). We will continue to honor him by showcasing poets, and working to help new voices rise through the weeds. Look out for Michael's upcoming poetry collection, releasing next year.
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This website is a work of passion, and it has no funding. We can really use your support for gathering media and other archive material, as well as paying to host this website. Any donation is greatly appreciated!
​-Kalvin M. Madsen
Creator and operator of this website
Submit your prose/poetry/visual art
Low Hanging Fruit is in the process of becoming. That being said, we are interested in a variety of genres and mediums. From poetry to photography, we seek anything you think can be expressed on a page or screen.
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While we are interested in an array of mediums, we have some interests. Special attention is given to speculative and socio-political fiction or works meant to challenge world views or color our mental associations. For visual works, anything goes. Comics and compilations/series are welcome, physical and digital art.