Have you ever written a poem and were impressed at how it turned out? Or have you formulated a story in your mind and thought it was pretty good? Or maybe you’ve written an A+ essay and were proud of it. Regardless of what your creative impulses are, if you want your works to be seen and to take what may be your first step into a writing career, then you should know about Microcosm.

Who are we?

Microcosm is a student-run, teacher-led group here at Co-Lin dedicated to creative writing. For about thirty years, the organization has accepted short stories, poetry, songs, essays, and plays from the students and even faculty of Co-Lin, in addition to the high schools in the surrounding counties. We select the best pieces of writing from what has been given to us, have them judged by an anonymous but qualified panel of judges, and publish them here on campus.

As of October 2004, however, we have begun taking submissions from the entire community, regardless of age or affiliation. It doesn't matter who you are-- if you submit something and we like it, it'll get published and we'll mail you three copies to show your friends and family!

Why write?

Writing is a taxing but rewarding mental process that airs out the soul and sharpens the mind. In writing, your efforts to create clarify your thoughts and bring your emotions to light; in a very literal sense, writing helps one to know him or herself better. A lot of people worry that the things they write are not any good. However, in every instance of inspiration, there is meaning and significance which cannot be denied. Often, conveying this meaning is simply a matter of style and bridging the gap between your creativity and your reading audience. This is a skill that can only be mastered through experience, and where better to start than Microcosm?