OCSA’s Literary Magazine, Atlantis Ablaze, is extending its deadline of submission to April 15th. Atlantis Ablaze, whose name represents a beacon or lighthouse, has created an issue dedicated to middle school writers.
You may submit your prose, poetry, art or photography by emailing [email protected] or dropping off your work in Mr. Capley’s room (3-112).
The issue’s theme is Speak Your Mind. The open-ended theme is meant to inspire young writers to create something that they feel is prevalent to say. This exemplifies the magazines own pillars, which are dedicated to giving a space for all artists to create poetry, prose, and more.
The editors, Amy Flores and Caitlyn Lungstrum, who lead the process of submissions have encouraged middle schoolers to submit their writing to this issue.
While many opportunities exist for high school artists, younger artists at the school, specifically middle schoolers, are often not highlighted. Younger artists may not find the outlets or have the confidence to pursue them. This was the exact reasoning behind Atlantis Ablaze’s issue theme.
Lungstrum explained that “often younger people are told to be seen and not heard.” It prides her to know that this platform can be a place where everyone can voice their words without fear of judgement and a great opportunity for recognition. Flores furthers this importance by saying, “in a time where we tend to stop listening to one another, publications like these provide change for the future so I would encourage anyone and everyone to participate.”
A middle school orchestra major submitted to the Speak Your Mind issue because she saw the chance to submit her work as a rare and cherished opportunity. The middle school magazine gave her the free rein to create what she desired, without the stress that an average English class assignment would most likely give her. More than anything she says that she hopes this issue serves as a reminder to people “who have become busy with responsibilities” that creating art for themselves is also important.
In every 10 people, 5 believe they have a great idea for a novel. Many people exist with ideas of creative grandeur. At OCSA, many artists are prone to remain within their own disciplines. Creativity is explored with the opportunities that their respective majors give them.
OCSA is a sanctuary for artistic growth. Whether a student enters this school at 6th grade, 9th grade, or 10th grade, every student is just a beginner in their discipline. No matter their success, the students all attend the school because they have great talent with the possibility of further growth.
A literary magazine is a perfect way to broaden your own artistic horizons. Besides giving artists the opportunity to explore different mediums, Atlantis Ablaze has also created banners that everyone can write on around the school. You can find one in the media center and in the cafeteria. These banners invite you share your story or an artwork that may be published in the literary magazine.
Don’t miss the April 15th deadline for the middle school issue and keep a look out for next year’s opportunities for creative expression.
