Bringing together the two threads of science and creativity

Warp and Weave. Some may be curious as to where a name like Warp and Weave originated from, though it is quite a fitting name for the English department sponsored publication. Just as science fiction and fantasy can be woven together to create an intriguing tale, weavers would weave together the warp, or the lengthwise threads of fabric, with the woof (weave), or crosswise threads. This publication consists of sensational stories that are spun in true chimerical and creative fashion. Warp and Weave alludes to the idea of "bringing together the two threads of science and creativity," says Charles Vogel, student advisor for the publication. Warp and Weave is a student journal of fiction and fantasy writings that began as a class project in a classroom over six years ago. Jen Wahlquist and Jolayne Call would collect their student's work and have them bound together. Students enjoyed the idea of having all theirs and their classmates work in one place and began requesting additional copies, and this is where the publication began. Fantasy and science fiction are very popular here in Utah, "if you don't believe me, just go watch the Twilight movie," says Charles Vogel. UVU even offers several science fiction classes, creative writing classes, and even classes that focus on the work of J.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, who are known for their fantastical writing. There is something exciting about living in a semi-real, semi-magical world. For many readers of fantasy and science fiction, it is a way to take your mind off the present and dream of the impossible. Fantasy is imagination that is unrestricted by reality. And in our world of constantly changing and evolving technologies, science fiction, with it's inclusion of fantastical elements as well speculative scientific components, are always very thrilling to explore.

Many have noticed the posters throughout the halls of our University that encouraged aspiring writers to submit their work. The deadline was October 2nd and on October 7th, judges began sifting through the many submissions to select the best work to be included in the publication due to come out at the beginning of December, and to be posted on the National Gallery on October 20th, which is the National Day on Writing. The judging criteria was determined by the current publications staff, which is made up of students and faculty advisors. Warp and Weave takes submissions not only from English majors, but from all majors, as well as members of the community. One of the great things about Warp and Weave is the great opportunity it provides for students to learn the process of taking a publication from the idea stage to the final stages, and ultimately, a book. This provides a practical educational experience to those students involved. Not only does this provide opportunities for writers in the area, but it also provides the opportunity for artists and art students to submit their original artwork. Some artists will even volunteer to create artwork that compliments the writing submissions. This publication is produced each fall and spring, and students have the occasion to compete for the coveted position of editor. Also, a new faculty advisor will have the chance to oversee the publication each fall and spring semester, this semester, Charles Vogel is the student advisor for the Warp and Weave publication. Writers who are published in Warp and Weave retain the rights to their work, and can publish in other avenues at any time and many will enthusiastically refine their work to be published subsequently. Charles Vogel describes Warp and Weave as "a great learning experience for the students in the production process. People on the staff can't publish their own pieces when they're on the staff, so they're only interested in helping fellow students, and they're also learning the editing and publishing process. It's also a way to reach out to the community, and that's a very nice aspect." Warp and Weave is a great way for students to try their hand at writing and expose themselves to the publication world. Though only about 10-15% of submissions can be included, the process will give writers invaluable feedback and insight to help them improve their work. Often times, past submissions will be amended and enriched by the writers to be used for a later publication. Writers are urged not to be discouraged should their work not be included in the journal, but to view the process as a valuable juncture to grow and improve their abilities.

Even if not looking to write or create artwork, Warp and Weave has something to offer the students of UVU as well as members of the community. This is an opportunity to explore something new as well as support our fellow students. It can also provide the students of UVU a chance to be carried away in a world of make belief, even if for just a short time. Maybe this exciting publication will even help relieve some stress before finals. Don't dismiss the exhilarating prospect of traversing a world that enjoys "bringing together the two threads of science and creativity," (Charles Vogel)