UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State University Libraries invites Penn State students, faculty and staff to submit original short stories or poetry centered on the theme “Head in the Clouds” to the spring 2023 Short Stories writing contest.
For this contest, the editorial board calls for entries that draw inspiration from the surrealist art movement of the early 20th century, when artists were discontent with reality and aimed to tap into their subconscious, giving way to absurdity. Examples of prominent artists from the movement include Salvador Dalí, Rene Magritte and Frida Kahlo.
Where does the mind go when freed from the constraints of reality? Ask yourself, “What are my deepest desires? What do they look and feel like?" We cling to rationality as a lifeline, but it is only when we detach ourselves from this construct that we can experience the mystical nature of being alive. Venture into the world of dreams, stray from the unexpected. Look for inspiration in the corners of your mind where fantasy goes to hide.
Contest submissions should include themes of openness, absurdity, optical illusions, daydreaming, imagination and multiple realities in a way that is significant to the piece. Qualifying lengths are as follows: Short-story submissions should not exceed 7,500 characters, including spaces; and poetry submissions should not exceed 6,000 characters.
Short Stories Contest submissions must be received by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, April 10, to be considered. From the qualifying submissions, five student winners from across the commonwealth will be chosen by the editorial board to be featured in the Penn State Libraries’ Magazine and receive a $100 gift card prize. Although only Penn State students are eligible to win prizes, all qualifying submissions will have the opportunity to be published in the Spring 2023 edition of the Libraries’ Magazine as honorable mentions.
Questions about University Libraries Short Stories writing contests can be directed to Danica White, coordinator for undergraduate research and engagement for Library Learning Services, at dew5422@psu.edu.