Flowing Through The 2020 iliad
In the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the production of the iliad’s 45th edition was disrupted, but the dedication of the students behind the scenes carried the book to completion.
The iliad Literary-Art Magazine’s 45th edition, “FLOW,” was published in July of 2020 shortly after the world shut down due to COVID-19. During that time tensions grew high as protests became widespread in a fight for racial justice. The whole world became divided and difficulties arose within the magazine's production. Right as they were approaching the finish line, quarantine was put into action and the staff was confined to their homes. But even with the surrounding factors holding them back, and their only form of communication being Zoom meetings, “FLOW” was executed strongly. The magazine serves as a comprehensive exploration of the creative process. The three subsections are spread throughout 65 pages and illustrate the journey of flow for the readers.
The first section, “Spark” opened with a free verse poem titled, “Song For a Girl” by Daniel Garcia-Pozo. The tonality of the writing showed the author finally finding the words to articulate his feelings. The piece reflected upon the creative process by overcoming the hesitation to express oneself. “Spark” reminds readers that the initial steps when creating are often the hardest, but once one follows the inspiration to get started, the momentum turns into flow.
“Distortion” is the middle sub-section of the magazine, illustrating the mindset one undertakes during the creative process. The lack of awareness that happens when creators are absorbed in a project is conveyed by titles like “Quicksand” and “Static.” The word static embodies something busy, yet formless, and quicksand relates to the feeling of being pulled into a project.
The 2020 edition ends with the sub-section “Clarity.” “Man and the Divine,” a multimedia piece by Lillian Sams, shows a person balancing two opposite elements with confidence. “Where I’m From,” an anonymous free verse poem shows the perspective of someone's upbringing which was written from the understanding that came from their experience. In a time when the world had no clarity this subsection was impactful. The pieces featured in “Clarity” engage readers as the book comes to a close.
The people who curated “Flow” have moved beyond-- as someone in their position under different circumstances, this magazine resonated with me. Through hearing about their journey and the outside factors hindering the book, I am inspired to strive for this year's edition like they did.
Spreads from the 2020 iliad, “FLOW”
Feature by Victoria Garland
Victoria Garland is a junior at Clarke Central High School in Athens, Georgia and serves as the Social Media Coordinator for the iliad Literary-Art Magazine. Garland’s passionate about sharing students creativity, and hopes to provide more of an outlet through social media. Outside of school Garland is on a competitive cheerleading team, plays piano, and enjoys hanging out with friends.