English Society launches new literary magazine

Saturday 29 April saw the launch of The Leaves, a new literary magazine created by The Downing English Society, at The Heong Gallery. 

The Leaves features poetry, prose, drama and visual art by Downing members and has been overseen by Downing Fellow, Dr Bonnie Lander Johnson.

The writers were drawn from many academic disciplines, such as English, Linguistics, Geography and Natural Sciences.

The first edition contains winning entries from a number of College prizes in writing, drama and visual art, as well as work from those new to writing and many who have never been published before. 

The entire submission, editorial and design process was all achieved within College. 

At the launch event, student editors Emily Finston and Tabitha Chopping (both English third-year undergraduates) spoke about the work that had gone into creating this year's edition. They were followed by contributors to the magazine, who each read from their work. 

Dr Lander Johnson said: "The students have worked hard and with such warmth and enthusiasm. I am really proud of them!

"Next year's editors are ready to start work on the second edition. I look forward to seeing the publication grow and I hope the alumni enjoy the work.

"We are very grateful to Robert Thorogood (1991, History and Death in Paradise creator) for his support in the journal's printing costs, and to Becky Proctor (Communications Manager) for her help with layout and design."

An online version of The Leaves is available to read.

Image: L-R Dr Bonnie Lander Johnson, Emily Finston, Robert Thorogood and Tabitha Chopping at the launch. (Martin Bond)

Published 3 May 2023