Iron Pen Writing Contest

“Iron Pen” is a writing contest that takes place entirely at conventions that are associated in some way with GPS.

Participants are given a certain time period in which to write a 250-word short story based on a mystery prompt. After the deadline, the entries are judged during the weekend and the winners announced on the last day of the convention in the GPS Auction room. The prizes awarded are usually $25 Amazon gift card for 1st, a $15 Amazon gift card for 2nd and a $10 Amazon gift card for 3rd, but this can vary depending on the convention and other factors. Please check specific rules at the convention.

Rules
Each contestant may submit only one entry. The entry must include their badge number as it is only open to convention attendees.
All entries must be original works of fiction.
All entries must be written within the time below.
All entries must involve the mystery prompt item in a clearly recognizable way.
All entries must be exactly 250 words, no more, no less. Hyphenated words or phrases will be counted as multiple words.
Entries may not exceed a PG13 rating.
Entries that are not legible will be disqualified.

You will see an announcement for the next convention we run at.

2024 CONvergence Winners
The convention’s prompt was: “You and me: Reaching for the Alien Shore” A line from the song “Alien Shore” from the album “Counterparts” by the Canadian band Rush.

1st Place Winner: “It’s Not Romantic” by Luke Anderson
2nd Place Winner: “Untitled” by Rebecca Kludy
3rd Place Winner: “Untitled” by Emma Benevides