Movable Type. This was the technological breakthrough that made printing books on a large scale possible. We proudly commemorate 1455 not merely as a milestone, but a concept. A free press, and presses that operate freely to publish stories (and opinions, ideas, etc.), ensure that the dissemination of information is controlled by neither an elite class nor censors. The process of democratizing content continues today. Movable Type, then, offers several connotations, and we recognize this name as symbolic of the continuum between 1455, today, and tomorrow. The need for personal narrative is strong as ever, and the ability to create and share these stories has never been more accessible.1455’s Movable Type, which will publish every other month, is meant to showcase personal stories by exceptional writers, provide invaluable resources, and foster solidarity. Each issue will provide a forum for a diverse array of poets, masters of prose, essayists, educators and anyone with passion for written expression.
If you would like to submit your work for possible publication in the next issue of Movable Type, please send your ORIGINAL essay of 500-1,000 words with “CALL FOR ESSAYS” in the subject line to info@1455litarts.org by September 1st.
I’m also happy to announce that every single session from our 2nd Annual Summer Literary Festival was recorded, and now available via 1455’s YouTube page. Revisit your favorite panels and enjoy the ones you might have missed! It’s impossible to single out individual moments from what was one extended highlight, but a handful of special ones include our Keynote Speaker Adrienne Miller, our conversation with the great Stephen Tobolowsky, my interview with award-winning, best-selling author Angie Kim, Jean Case’s Storyteller of the Year Award, our Teen Poetry panel (including readings from our finalists), our #BLM reading: Inspiration Information, and “Alone Together: A COVID Anthology Reading.”
Like last year, participation in Lit Fest was free, but putting it on was not. Special thanks to our festival sponsors Virginia Humanities, Shenandoah University, Blue Plate Books, Bob Ramin, Denise DeConcini, Martha Schumacher, and the 1455 Board.
We’re proud to continue to keep 1455 an open and free forum for sharing. But none of the work of 1455 is possible without your support. As a nonprofit, our ability to pivot in these uncertain times relies on your philanthropy. Your generosity in contributions will enable us to showcase the written word in every form to greater diverse audiences, and to develop programs for our rich demography. Please, give today to help 1455 mobilize and grow our mission.
Thank you for believing in 1455. Share our content widely with your personal networks, and consider encouraging others to join us!
