What exactly is a ‘published’ writer?

The Bocas Lit Fest’s Web site says that the Hollick Arvon Caribbean Writers Prize is for emerging writers. But to be eligible the writer must have had at least one piece of creative writing of no less than 2,000 words, published. What exactly does “published” mean?

“Published” is rather vague. Is an article on a personal blog published? Or a letter to the local newspaper? If a Web site accepted and posted my story, do I qualify? If I don’t then has it struck the organisers that a lot of “emerging” writers across the Caribbean have automatically been excluded from this competition?

In conversation with an emerging writer I asked her opinion. She said, “I’m concerned about this idea of exclusivity. How can they expect all emerging writers to have published stories already? Doesn’t it seem unfair? Especially to writers in the Caribbean who need opportunities like this—it’s like they’re just deflating ambition.

I think the problem lies in the fact that it gives false hope. When you think something good is finally happening in the region it just turns out to be a whole lot of hot air.” I believe this matter needs clarification before the competition ends on September 30, at 6 pm. Thank you.
 

Lyndon Baptiste
via e-mail