When written well, words have the power to bring about tremendous change—to touch hearts, share experiences and inspire action. In a powerful culmination of eloquence and emotion characteristic of today’s socio-political atmosphere, the 42 student editors and authors of Intertext 2019 have created a publication that aims to do just that.

 

Intertext, at its core, seeks to showcase the excellent work that students have produced within the Writing Program. Offering a plethora of colorful and engaging courses that cover genres, histories and theories in the art of rhetoric, the Department of Writing, Rhetoric and Composition nurtures and encourages students to articulate their experiences and stories through words on a page. Very often, this creates an environment in which students find—sometimes to their own surprise—matters that ignite a passionate flame within, and an eloquent voice to speak about these issues with. These pieces transcend their original purpose of being submitted for a grade, and deserve to be recognized for their merit, and the conversations they have the potential to spark. Since 1993, Intertext has provided students with a platform to showcase these works, and for us to indulge in outstanding and thought-provoking pieces of composition.

 

From the journeys of enlightenment, to the exploration of culture and individuals, to calls to activism fueled by indignance and fury—this 2019 edition of Intertext offers rich and distinct perspectives on a multitude of topics. Some stories illustrate the optimistic nuances of personal growth, while others weave tales of heart-wrenching grief and vehement anger. Many candidly approach delicate subject matters that are infrequently addressed in everyday conversation due to the discomfort they may cause. We at Intertext ask that you approach these pieces with an open mind and heart—it took a lot of courage for these authors to bare theirs. The hardships that our peers overcame built them into the remarkable people they are today, and the diverse and colorful voices of these authors meld into a harmony of recovery, possibility, and hope.

 

We at Intertext hope that these chronicles of adversity and controversy are able to spark discussion of important topics, inspire action, and provide you with the solace that difficult times pass; that it is never too late to find oneself.

​

​

​

​

We would like to thank, firstly, the authors, artists and photographers who have sent in work for the 2019 edition of Intertext. Regardless of whether your submission was included in the final publication, the fortitude it takes to showcase your work to the Syracuse University community is immeasurable; and these acts of courage that makes Intertext possible.

 

Of course, we would also like to thank Professor Patrick W. Berry, who facilitated the editing and assembly of the issue itself. With limitless patience and immense diligence, he taught us the process of publication, imparting with us valuable knowledge that will help us greatly in our academic and professional careers. His guidance and creativity unquestionably molded this year’s edition of Intertext into the remarkable, insightful piece in your hands right now.

 

A huge thank you to Benay Bubar for her professional instruction, and for providing her wealth of knowledge and experience in a field that we, as students, have only begun to venture into.

Finally, we would like to acknowledge each and every aspiring writer here at Syracuse University; we hope to see your works published in future editions of Intertext, someday. To these budding writers: read broadly, live candidly, and write freely — with hope.