Erin Knape
Pronouns:
Research Mentor(s): John Buckley
Research Mentor School/College/Department: English Language & Literature /
Program: UROP
Session: Session 2 (10:00am – 10:50am)
Authors: Erin Knape, John Buckly
Abstract
Literary journals contain writings capturing the period in which they were crafted. Journal themes and styles encompass pivotal societal movements, human struggles, imaginative worlds, and future hopes. This study uncovers aesthetic visions and common themes, identifies the components of excellent composition and storytelling, and answers the research question of which literary journals best suit my own creative work. The initial goal was to create a database of thematic observations to guide my journal submission process. My methodology entailed reading, evaluating, and gathering subjective assessments, qualitative observations, and quantitative data in a comprehensive Excel database. I assessed poems and prose to ascertain each journal’s theme, number of contributors, journal price, vision, how well they suit my writing, and other variables. Additionally, I produced weekly prose writings critiqued through the University of Iowa’s workshop model. After accumulating 20 database entries and finalizing at least five creative works, I employed these findings to guide my submission efforts. By utilizing the database, I expected to achieve at least two publications. Rather than having a marked conclusion or goal, this database is an ever-evolving tool for future submissions in my writing career. As literary citizens, staying informed on pertinent societal topics and communicating ideas with other literary citizens is essential. This project allowed me to contribute to an ecology of ideas, perspectives, and insights, helping to guide human beings grappling with universal questions.
