Keya Mitra Emerges Victorious in Prairie Schooner’s 2024 Creative Nonfiction Contest
Keya Mitra, an accomplished Indian American author, has clinched the prestigious title of winner in Prairie Schooner’s 2024 Summer Nonfiction Essay Contest with her poignant and powerful piece, “Bruised and Glorious.” This compelling essay is a part of Mitra’s larger work, a memoir-in-essays titled “Almost Born,” which delves into the intricate themes of fertility struggles faced by women in their 40s, battling chronic illness, and the transformative journey of healing and renewal through multiple Camino Santiago pilgrimages.
A Closer Look at Mitra’s Journey and Achievements
Mitra’s remarkable talent and dedication to her craft shine through in her impressive academic background, holding a Master of Fine Arts and a doctorate from the University of Houston. Her literary prowess has been showcased in publications like the Kenyon Review and Best American Short Stories 2018, where she earned a notable mention for her exceptional storytelling.
Moreover, Mitra’s accolades extend beyond the realms of literature, with prestigious awards such as the 2021 Tobias Wolff Award for Fiction and the 2022 Arnold L. Graves and Lois S. Graves Award in the Humanities under her belt. Her commitment to advancing knowledge and creativity is further exemplified by her Fulbright grant to India and her role as an esteemed professor of creative writing and literature at Pacific University.
Celebrating Mitra’s Literary Triumph
The distinguished panel of judges for the contest, led by Safiya Sinclair, a renowned poet from Montego Bay, Jamaica, was captivated by Mitra’s eloquent prose and profound storytelling in “Bruised and Glorious.” Sinclair’s heartfelt praise for Mitra’s work resonates with readers, highlighting the essay’s ability to navigate complex themes of personal struggle, resilience, and communal healing with grace and authenticity.
Mitra’s upcoming feature in the spring 2025 edition of Prairie Schooner journal promises readers an immersive experience into the depths of her narrative prowess, inviting them to embark on a journey of self-discovery and collective healing through the power of storytelling.
In a world where voices like Keya Mitra’s are shaping our literary landscape with their unique perspectives and unwavering commitment to truth and vulnerability, we are reminded of the transformative power of storytelling to inspire, heal, and connect us all on a profound level. Congratulations to Keya Mitra on this well-deserved recognition, and may her words continue to touch hearts and minds for years to come.
