Delta seeks submissions, holds art party

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By Jalissa Bates

The Delta, Louisiana State University’s undergraduate literary magazine, held its first art party on November 6.

About 70 people gathered at the Old President’s House to hear poetry, listen to music and have refreshments. Prints and paintings of students’ work lined the walls for viewing.

The Delta was founded in 1947 and continues to be a medium for and a record of student literary and artistic excellence. Its mission is to lift the prestige of the Undergraduate Creative Writing Program and to have that prestige be substantially felt among the student population.

Matthew Herron, editor in chief of the Delta, welcomed the crowd and invited them to submit to this year’s journal. The staff seeks quality writing in the following mediums: poetry, short fiction, essays, translations, creative nonfiction, plays, excerpts from novels, excerpts from screenplays, interviews, literary/art criticism and philosophical and poetic manifestoes. In addition, Delta accepts black and white visual art submissions from the following: painting, drawing, photography, prints, sculpture and mixed media. All submissions are due December 1.

Herron said the origins of the Delta had been a profound story he had been researching for some time.

“There were art, philosophy, interviews you name it,” Herron said. “It actually had sheet music.”

Many Delta staff members read original works of poetry and fiction. After the readings, David Madden, creative writing professor, stepped forward and announced his appreciation for the event.

“I don’t use the word thrill too often,” Madden said. “But I am thrilled to see the talent, the spirit and the friendliness in the room.”

Madden said that it was the 40th anniversary of the undergraduate creative writing program that he founded at the University. Herron later said Madden was a very powerful orator and created most of the writing awards that gives money to students.

Randolph Thomas, a faculty advisor, led the music selections by reading his own poetry and playing songs from his band. Students followed his reading poems turned into songs, playing the guitar and an upbeat synthesizer mix.

Caitlin Casselman, managing editor, said the event was held to show people what we’re looking for in terms of submissions.

“We want everyone to have fun, ask questions and learn about the journal,” Casselman said.

Layth Sihan, English junior, said he and the staff were hoping for a high turnout of people and were pleased with the results.

“This is the best case scenario,” Sihan said.

Herron said this is the first year the publication had had so much support. The Delta has such a rich history, Herron said.

“This is what the Delta is about – creative people communicating, getting ideas across and having a good time.”

Originally Published: Issue 712 - November 12, 2008

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