TEHRAN – More than 4,000 literary works in Persian and other languages have been submitted to Iran’s international 6-word story prize from five continents, organizers said on Wednesday, as the contest focuses on themes of children’s rights, peace, patriotism and hope.
The “Minab School” award, organized by the Office of Persian Literature and Language, has received over 3,000 entries in Persian and 1,000 in Arabic and English from countries including Italy, Pakistan, the United States, Congo, Iraq, Serbia, Egypt, the Philippines, Algeria, Libya, Mali and Tunisia, according to data from the secretariat.
The competition’s defining feature is its strict minimalist format: each story must be told in exactly six words, combining brevity with the capacity for interpretation and resonance in the reader’s mind.
Organizers said the submission window remains open until July 22 and will not be extended. Each author may submit up to six works via email or designated messaging app channels on Bale and Telegram.
Entries will be judged by a panel of domestic and international literary experts. Winners at the closing ceremony will receive trophies, commemorative plaques and cash prizes.