The University’s literary magazine, Stillpoint, is accepting submissions for its new issue and hosting its annual open mic poetry reading tonight to coincide.

The magazine has published works from a faux essay about Charles Dickens’ drunken college days to intense poems filled with emotion.

“Basically, anyone present is free to take the podium and share their poetry or short stories,” said staff member, Jeremy White, a senior English major from Sylvester. “We stick around until everyone is finished – it’s very relaxed and laid-back.”

Since 1969, Stillpoint has been the official undergraduate literary publication for the University. Its title was derived from T.S. Eliot’s poem, “Burnt Norton.”

“I joined the publication because I enjoy creative writing and editing,” said senior editor, Alex Dimitropoulos, a junior from Marietta. “Being a part of a student literary magazine seemed like the best way to combine those two interests and being on staff is an absolute joy.”

White said he began working with the magazine in hopes of gaining experience with publishing.

“You learn firsthand how a literary journal operates and is produced, and you also make friends with some really talented, driven people that share the same passion for good writing,” he said.

The magazine takes entries of poetry, prose and artwork from all majors, and the submissions are “blind,” meaning the pieces are judged without a name, so everyone has an equal opportunity.

“We’re not looking for anything specific, so long as it’s honest, heartfelt, original and well-crafted, we’ll give it serious consideration,” White said. “Ultimately, we try to select the pieces that jump out at us the most, the ones that stay with us for a long time after initially reading them.”

The open mic will promote the magazine and give participants an opportunity to read their pieces aloud.

“We don’t judge or reward the pieces at the reading, we don’t screen the material for obscenity or what we consider to be bad writing, and we don’t limit the material by style,” Dimitropoulos said.

Amelia Kohli, a senior staff member from Kennesaw, said she plans on reading two of her own poems and looks forward to hearing the non-staff members’ pieces.

“Some have been writing for a while, and some are still perfecting their styles,” she said. “People can expect to have a good time of the poetry-nerd variety.”

Those in attendance will receive a free copy of the newest “Stillpoint” edition and guidelines for future submissions, along with refreshments such as Jittery Joe’s coffee.

“We’re giving exposure to young, talented artists as we’re being exposed to their work,” said Dimitropoulos. “I’m certain that someone picking up the magazine will enjoy it and possibly be inspired to create something of his or her own.”