This upper-division Writing & Literature workshop introduces you to the literary journal as an object of study and as an editorial experience. Traditionally, literary journals are printed collections of fiction, memoir, criticism, poetry, reviews, and/or other forms of writing, accompanied by visual art and/or photography. Yet online literary journals shouldn't be overlooked for their potential to launch talented new voices or reach appreciative readers around the world. While some journals reflect academic or educational origins, others speak "the vernacular" and flourish in DIY, zine, and activist spaces. Whether print or electronic, all literary journals reflect an underlying passion to amplify their contributors' talents. At CCA, our literary journal Humble Pie is embedded in the belief that self-expression is critical to sustaining a vibrant community. Our mission is to advance the development of poets, writers, and artists at CCA as we foster a nurturing environment for literature and the arts. In this class, you will be using the analytical and creative skills you practiced in Writing 1 and 2, expressing yourselves through the written/spoken word while strengthening your editorial insights. We will situate presses and publications that "gather" voices—including journals, newspapers, anthologies, magazines, and websites—around the world. We will also map the Bay Area literary community with "Spotlight" authors and projects. Ultimately, Literary Journal is a celebration of the written and visual arts at local and international scales.
- Instructor: Julie Thi