Deadline Drawing Near: 13th Annual Synecdoche

Eyes are the pathway to the soul, but for some, writing conveys overwhelming honesty, emotion, and truth. With a robust amount of young talent at Vanguard University, the English Department showcases Vanguard’s best work through Synecdoche: The Literary Journal of Vanguard University. Composed of poems, short stories, scholarly works, photography, and other arts, the journal seeks to turnout the best content possible.

The journal, Synecdoche, accepts submissions student-wide through all varying majors. Senior, English major Elaina Ahmed was excited about the journal saying, “How cool would it be for people to get published before they even graduate?” Ahmed noted that she incorporates her love for history into her writing, creating historical fiction pieces; and often reads her friends’ writings, which range from fantasy to realistic fiction. With such a wide variety of genres, this opens the gate to a large opportunity for many writers.

Past students published in the journal include Hannah Lush, recent graduate of May 2015. Lush is known around the Vanguard community for her musical talent, but her talents run wide into writing. She has now been published in other publications outside of Vanguard University.  When asking Dr. Karen Lee, Vanguard English Department Head, about Lush, she had nothing but good things to say, saying that her writings were “beautifully inventive, creative works.” Over the past decade, several works in creative genres were subsequently published in non-student affiliated publications.

Vanguard is a university that values community, which transitions into all avenues. As young writers begin to navigate the unknown field of publishing, Synecdoche provides a stepping stone to big time publishing goals. Lee pointed out that campus literary journals are initial publication forums that offer its student contributors visibility and community – “It provides valuable experience for students who wish to explore the publishing industry as a career.” As Vanguard students continue to grow in their writing, this creates a safe space for encouragement and criticism.

As the deadline approaches – Monday, February 1st – excitement is stirring as the screening process is about to begin. Because their are so many submissions, not all work will be published. In order to be considered for the journal, please email synecdoche@vanguard.edu by this Monday. All writing styles are encouraged. The only limit is on the length; 10 to 12 pages maximum.