2025 Letter from the Editors

Dear Reader,

The Spires Team would firstly like to thank you for choosing to read and interpret the creative mediums produced by the students at MCLA. Not only would we like to appreciate the time and effort it took for these artists to create their works but also the courage it takes to publish their voices and allow for them to be heard by an audience.

The beauty of poetry and artwork is often tied to nature metaphors such as flowers and trees. That being said, as you flip through the pages of this journal may you feel the soft petals of each Rose Mallow planted within the pencil and paintbrush strokes of these artists. A flower that is not only beautiful but so resilient that despite the harsh conditions where they bloom force their bright colors to be seen throughout both drought and flood. Within the harsh conditions of the political environment in our country, the voices of these creators are blooming and refusing to be silenced. After the numerous works that were submitted revolving around climate preservation and the fight for equal human rights, we took notice to a theme. This idea of resistance which aided the decision in this year’s cover and quote on the back of the book. The image chosen “Witchy Woman” by Mannie McBride encapsulates the frustration that many of us are feeling within our country today by symbolizing rage and impatience in her stance and gaze. Along with the adaptation to Woody Guthrie’s song: “Tear the Fascists Down,” that Joseph King adjusted to fit more modern political times. From the team of Spires, we would like everyone to know that we stand with you in this fight for equality and encourage your voice to be heard within these dark times.

Thank you again to all the students who submitted their beautiful works of art, and making this publication possible. We would also like to thank Professor Zachary Finch for advising this journal, as well as to the English and Philosophy department for allowing time and space for Spires to exist and thrive.

With thanks,

The Spires Editorial Team