Once every semester, the Plymouth State University Poets & Writers publish Centripetal, a literary magazine featuring a variety of pieces such as poems, proses, and artwork. All Plymouth State University students, alumni, faculty, and staff are invited to submit their original work to Centripetal.
Centripetal is a great way for individuals to be expressive and release some of those bottled up emotions that tend to have no escape. Submissions can be about any topic of the writer’s choosing. So look at it as an open invitation to let it all out. Haley A. Sciola, President of PSU Poets & Writers and editor for Centripetal stated, “Usually, we see a lot of work dealing with relationships, emotional angst, and humor.”
Although all work is accepted, artwork is being heavily encouraged. “We’re always trying to solicit more art submissions. We accept both black and white as well as color photography and other 2D art,” said Sciola.
However, if art is not your thing, do not be discouraged because all submissions are welcome. “Each person may submit up to four works of writing in addition to four works of art. We accept all forms of poetry, prose less than 3,000 words, and graphic fiction,” said Sciola.
At this point, if you’re considering submitting, but feel nervous, have no fear. If you find that you’re conflicted between getting your work out there and having your name on it, there is a place in Centripetal for you. “We’ve honored requests in the past for individuals to submit anonymously,” said Sciola.
Whether submitting is something you have already contemplated, or this is the first time you’ve ever heard of Centripetal, take action, and write something. Sciola encouraged, “Centripetal is a pretty eclectic magazine and almost anything goes, so perhaps it will inspire you to write even more!”
If you do decide to submit, make sure you take it seriously because Centripetal is not something to be taken lightly. There is an incredible amount of time and effort that goes into publishing Centripetal and being featured in it is something to take pride in.
Sciola gave the following advice for anyone interested in submitting, “For starters, don’t submit a first draft. Have someone else read your work and give you constructive feedback before you submit. Be sure to revise your work before you submit and be sure you’ve removed all simple typographical and grammatical errors. Lastly, read Centripetal.”
Centripetal is available online to read at centripetal.blogs.plymouth.edu to see what kind of other works have been published in the past.
The submission deadline is March 15, 2013. Submissions should be emailed to poetswriters@plymouth.edu. Those working on Centripetal ask to please attach writing as Word Document files or Dropbox links. Art should be submitted as a Dropbox link or an attached .JPEG file; however, if accepted, they will ask for higher quality .TIF files for print publication.
If you are considering submitting, even if it’s only a thought at this point, go for it. You never know what you might come up with and making it into Centripetal is a great way to show off your creative talents.