The Dulcimer: How it has changed and where you can find it

Mercer University’s award-winning literary magazine has been around since the 60’s, but it has not always looked the way it does now.

The Dulcimer began as a way for creative writers on campus to publish their poetry.

“It wasn’t always a gem on Mercer’s campus,” said Yael Tessler, the magazine’s publicity manager.

Some years it was not a magazine at all. But instead, no more than a single page publishing student’s work.

According to Tessler, it was about 5 years ago when the magazine had a complete overhaul.

The change won the publication its first award as “Most Improved Organization.”

One of its most recent additions has been a focus on graphic design and visual art.

The magazine has widened its horizon, now focusing on a variety of artistic mediums.

“We are a platform for Mercer students and faculty to get their [creative] work published,” said Tessler.

Mercer alumni are also able to submit for publication.

As the Dulcimer is developing its presence on campus, they are currently accepting submissions for their upcoming publication in April.

The deadline for submissions is Nov. 12 at 11:59 p.m.

“This year’s theme is Spectrum,” said student Editor-in-Chief Chelsea Carr.

Carr explains that Spectrum is about seeing that there is more to life than black and white.

It involves appreciating differences and finding where we individually lie within art and literature.

“Life is not binary,” Carr said. “It’s really about recognizing and celebrating cultures.”

The Dulcimer keeps their annual themes specific enough to give content creators direction, but also vague to lead to artistic interpretation and free expression.

Students and faculty are allowed to submit outside of the theme, but it is not preferred.

For those who are not able to submit in November, there will be another short submission opening early next spring.

However, Tessler suggests it is better to submit earlier because the majority of the publication will take shape this fall.

“I would really like to see more art submissions,” said Tessler. “We have never had a sculpture submission.”

Tessler said that the Dulcimer would like to see more people having fun with their art and submitting works that are light-hearted and amusing in nature.

Carr would like to spread the Dulcimer’s impact across Mercer and the student community, stating that the magazine is open to all majors.

“We just want students to know we are here,” she said.

The magazine is planning on releasing its upcoming issue during next year’s Bear Day.  

The organization will host its annual launch party on one evening of the event, and anyone is welcome to attend.

Readers can pick up a free copy of the Dulcimer and meet with some of the artists and writers featured in the magazine.

“It’s… a celebration of the magazine,” Carr said.