The 2014 International Dylan Thomas Prize, open to authors under 39 who have had a work published in English and dubbed “The World’s Largest Literary Prize for Young Writers,” has been awarded in the centenary year of the Welsh poet’s birth to an American author. Perhaps fittingly given the significance that New York had to Dylan Thomas, it went to Joshua Ferris, a native born New Yorker, for his novel To Rise Again at a Decent Hour.

Sponsored by Swansea University, the Prize, now in its ninth year, “celebrates the legacy of Swansea poet and writer Dylan Thomas, and the importance of creativity and literary excellence in the contemporary world.” Under its terms, Joshua Ferris receives £30,000 ($47,610) and a limited edition bronze bust of Dylan Thomas.

Professor John Spurr, Head of the College of Arts and Humanities at Swansea University, said: “Swansea University is deeply proud of our partnership with the Prize. We have common goals: we aim to nurture talent, to celebrate creativity, and to achieve international excellence. We want to take the best of Swansea to the world and bring artists, scholars and students from around the globe to South Wales.”

 

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