About the Open Call

Verlierer Verlag is hosting a writing competition for 2026 focusing on Negative Philosophy: The philosophy of unknowing. The contest seeks short stories, essays, and poetry that explore the practical impacts of a negative-philosophical approach on the individual and collective psyche. All submitted texts are published on the publisher's website for public discussion and commentary, which informs the jury's selection process.

What is Offered

The top three submissions will receive prize money: 1000 € for 1st place, 500 € for 2nd place, and 300 € for 3rd place.

Requirements

Submissions must be in German and include poems, short stories, or essays. Maximum length is 40,000 characters including spaces. Authors must grant permission for the reprinting of award-winning works.

How to Apply

Submissions should be sent via email to team@verliererverlag.com. Texts will be published anonymously on the publisher's website for the duration of the competition.