Before establishing himself as one of hip-hop's most celebrated lyricists, Tupac Shakur was a prolific poet who wrote about universal themes such as loneliness, love, and heartbreak.
In honor of National Poetry Month, the late rapper's estate has launched a competition and a limited merch collection that celebrates Pac's passion for writing. The contest, aptly dubbed the "Tupac Poetry Month Competition," invites fans to submit poems about the ways Pac has inspired them.
Poems must be submitted in English and should not contain sexually explicit, derogatory, or profane wording. The estate also prohibits the promotion of illegal drugs, tobacco, alcohol weapons, "or any activities that may appear unsafe or dangerous." You can read the full guidelines online, and submit poetry here.
Those who enter will have the chance to win a limited edition merch bundle inspired by Pac's poetry. The pieces, which are available at the rapper's official webstore, include a denim jacket, hoodie, T-shirts, tote bag, pencil set, and a Life Through My Eyes journal.
Check out some of the items below.
