Dandelion Scribes is delighted to present 22 remarkable poems from the winners of the 2025 Appalachian Artist League Poetry Contest! Poets near & far were asked to produce an original piece of writing, centered around the theme of change. The result is a collection of powerful poetry that addresses personal, social, environmental, and spiritual transformation. Whether change is perceived as growth or regression depends on each poet’s unique perspective and individual circumstances. More often than not, change carries a sense of ambiguity, existing within a liminal space of positive & negative, light & dark. Each of the following poets have contributed an important statement in a larger conversation – one that requires honesty, vulnerability, and willingness to share. How do we deal with change, as human beings? What realities must we grapple with as everything around us shifts and fluctuates? Where do we find the strength to step into a brand-new world? And who can we count on for support when everything we once knew washes away?