The London Society Invites Entries for Love Letters to London Competition
The London Society, a charity dedicated to celebrating the essence of London, has announced the launch of its fourth annual Love Letters to London competition. Established in 1912, the organization aims to provide a platform for individuals of all ages to express their admiration, frustrations, and dreams for the vibrant city through prose or poetry.
This year, the theme of the competition is “Dreams for London,” chosen to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s historic sermon at St. Paul’s Cathedral. Participants are encouraged to share their passions, hopes, and aspirations for the capital city, using their words to paint a vision of a brighter future for London.
Prize Money and Categories
The London Society is offering a total prize pool of over £4,000 for the best entries in the competition. Writers are invited to submit pieces of writing of up to 500 words that capture the essence of London and reflect on their dreams for the city. There are two separate categories for children: one for those aged 11 and under, and another for individuals aged 12 to 18. Poems submitted to the competition must not exceed 40 lines in length.
All categories are free to enter, and the deadline for submissions is set for 20th December 2024 at noon. A special prize-giving ceremony will be held in the historic St. Paul’s Crypt on 29th March 2025, providing an opportunity for participants to celebrate their creative contributions to the city they love.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Legacy in London
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s visit to London in 1964 left a lasting impact on the city and its residents. His sermon, entitled “The Three Dimensions of a Complete Life,” delivered at St. Paul’s Cathedral to a congregation of 4,000 people, provided a rare opportunity for individuals to witness the civil rights leader in person. This sermon, which Dr. King had first preached in Montgomery, Alabama ten years earlier, emphasized the importance of living a life filled with love, justice, and compassion.
Dr. King’s visit to London occurred en route to Oslo, where he would receive the Nobel Peace Prize for his tireless efforts in leading the civil rights movement in the United States. St. Paul’s Cathedral, a symbol of hope and unity, had been actively involved in advocating against racism for several years prior to Dr. King’s visit. In fact, the cathedral had hosted a performance by the legendary black American singer and activist, Paul Robeson, six years earlier, showcasing its commitment to promoting racial equality and justice.
The London Society and its Historic Roots
The London Society, founded in 1912, has a rich history of bringing together prominent planners, architects, and business leaders to discuss and debate the spatial development and built environment of the capital city. Early members of the society included influential figures such as Sir Edwin Lutyens, Gordon Selfridge, Aston Webb, and Sir Raymond Unwin, who played pivotal roles in shaping the future of London’s urban landscape.
The organization has continued to uphold its commitment to celebrating the unique charm and diversity of London through various initiatives, including the Love Letters to London competition. By providing a platform for individuals to express their love and aspirations for the city, the London Society aims to foster a sense of community and appreciation for all that London has to offer.
How to Enter the Competition
For those interested in participating in the Love Letters to London competition, detailed instructions on how to submit entries can be found on the London Society’s website. As a trustee of the London Society, Dave Hill encourages individuals of all ages to share their creative expressions and visions for the city they hold dear.
In conclusion, the Love Letters to London competition presents a unique opportunity for individuals to showcase their love and appreciation for the vibrant city of London. By commemorating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and encouraging participants to share their dreams for the future of the city, the competition serves as a platform for creative expression and community engagement. As London continues to evolve and grow, the Love Letters to London competition celebrates the enduring spirit and allure of this iconic city.