Posted by Holly Gilbert, fiction reader for issue 4.2
In Managing Editors Courtney and Christie’s introduction to issue 4.2 of Gandy Dancer, they contemplate all we have to celebrate, from the joy of reading works from fellow SUNY students to our ever-expanding knowledge and appreciation for literature and art in all forms. On the morning of May 11th, friends of Gandy Dancer took this message of celebration to heart by joining us in launching our newest issue.
The Hunt Room in the MacVittie College Union was abuzz with conversation as staff members, contributors, family, and friends trickled in for the party. Attendees were greeted with steaming trays of bacon and eggs and silver platters of pastries, free pins and pencils, and the chance to nab their very own Gandy Dancer tote bag (all the better for sneaking those leftover pastries back home). The main attraction, of course, were the gorgeous print copies of Gandy Dancer issue 4.2; eager readers were already delving into its pages.
We were graced with readings from many of our contributors as this issue’s stunning visual art pieces were projected in the front of the room. The poetry was fascinating to hear in each author’s voice, and emphasized how differently a piece can be approached by each reader. Excerpts from “Frontierland,” “Amorphous Children,” and “Sonder” also drew partygoers in, showcasing the strengths of our variety of fiction and creative nonfiction selections. We offer gratitude to those contributors who could share with us at the launch party, and lament only that there were so many more pieces we wish we could have heard.
Our gathering was filled with people proudly donning their Gandy Dancer tees and pins, enjoying the warmth of both coffee and company, and, best of all, celebrating the literary accomplishments of students throughout the greater SUNY system. We urge you to explore our newest issue of Gandy Dancer (you can purchase your very own print copy to hold, love, and cry into!) and share in this celebration with us, even if you had to miss out on the festivities. Scramble up some of your own eggs, crack open your brand new copy of Gandy Dancer issue 4.2, and know that by immersing yourself in the talent of our contributors, you are partying with us in spirit.