[News Release] – “Writing is easy,” said legendary sportswriter Red Smith. “You just open a vein and bleed.”

Although no easy task, writing has the power to transform and inspire, especially when read out loud in front of an audience. In celebration of fine writing, the College of the Canyons English department will host “Poets & Writers,” a curated reading of fine prose and poetry at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 22, 2014. The reading will consist of works selected by a committee prior to the event.

“Reading one’s work publicly is a challenge, but it is a rewarding and unforgettable experience,” said Svetlana Lynch, COC English professor. “This is a fantastic opportunity for writers to experience the thrill of sharing their work with a group of people who share their passion for prose and poetry.”

In order to participate, writers must submit original work by noon on Thursday, April 24 at the English desk inside The Learning Center (TLC), located on the college’s Valencia campus.

Submission rules and guidelines are as follows:

• Work must be typed. Names on submitted pages must be omitted.
• Poets may submit four poems, maximum.
• Short stories or essays are limited to seven pages, double-spaced.
• Submit four copies of each entry.
• Do not submit originals since work will not be returned.
• Selected works must be read by the author at the event. 

There is no entry fee to participate. Submitted work will be reviewed and selected by three COC faculty members and a student. Decisions will be emailed to participants by Tuesday, May 13.

The “Poets & Writers” reading will be held in Mentry Hall, Room 343, on the college’s Valencia campus. For more information about “Poets & Writers” and submission guidelines, call Jennifer Hauss at (661) 362-3422.