In/Words, Carleton’s student-run small press literary magazine, has been asking writers and visual artists to reflect on their experiences of travelling abroad for its newest issue, which is set to be released Nov. 7.
The 20-page travel-themed publication showcases poetry, prose, photography, and artwork from approximately 15 contributors from across Canada, according to editor Alison Griffith.
This issue’s theme was decided by Griffith, who said the four members of this year’s In/Words editing team agreed to each come up with a different theme for the issues to be published this academic year.
“I decided, for my issue, to do travel because I absolutely love travelling,” Griffith said. “I’m always taking off and I’m not really ever sitting still. So, I thought it would be really neat to have an issue after the summer that was perhaps inspired by people’s experiences travelling over the summer or just in general,”
Erin Kirsh, a first-time In/Words contributor from Vancouver, B.C., said the theme inspired her to submit to the magazine.
“In/Words is a great publication, and I thought it was a really fun theme,” she said. “When people travel they’re kind of at their most excited [point] and most people I know love doing it. I thought it would be a really cool issue to read and to be a part of.”
Kirsh explained that the poem she submitted explores what travelling looks like in her eyes and how it takes shape in her mind. She added that much of her writing was inspired by her recent visit to Israel, Singapore, and Japan.
This issue’s theme isn’t the only thing that sets it apart from previous releases, though. Griffith explained that this year’s editing team is the youngest in the magazine’s history, and is made up of all new and all female members. She said these factors have played a powerful role in the production of the magazine.
“I think it has really influenced our interests,” Griffith said. “I guess we’re coming to it with a bit more of a fresh slate.”
She added that it will be interesting to see what this editing staff can do on future issues.
“Perhaps we’re not as influenced by what has happened in the past, if that’s good or bad I’m not sure, but it’s going to lead to some interesting results,” she said.
The public launch for this issue will take place at Fox & Feather Pub and Grill on Nov. 7 at 7 p.m., and will feature readings by writers and performers like Amanda Earl, Conyer Clayton, Justin Lam, Ian Martin, and Sarah Cole. Copies of the magazine will also be available for purchase.
Two more In/Words issues are expected to be released this year. One issue will have a food theme and the other will accept general submissions, Griffith said. In the meantime, the editing team also plans to publish a few chapter books and possibly an anthology in the new year.
