By Shira Gould || Staff Writer

This past Friday, September 30, at 7 p.m., the Writing Center and the Writers House co-hosted their first Story Slam, held at the Writing Center in Diagnothian Hall on the Franklin & Marshall College campus. About twelve people were in attendance, ready to support Franklin & Marshall’s most passionate writers. Three people read their works relating the the theme of “food.”

The subjects of the stories ranged from World War II, to the best cups of coffee, to overcoming an eating disorder. The audience listened in awe while one author read a chapter from her book about the dynamic between the best friend and wife of a husband who left during WWII. The room was silent; people were absorbing every word.

Next, a man took the stand to discuss his struggles with an eating disorder. It was a relatable and funny portrayal of the strange relationship with food that the author had.

Lastly was a witty adaptation of a short story about the best, or worst, cups of coffee and the memories that accompany them. With each new description, the speaker took a sip of his own cup, putting the audience in the scene of the performance.

The atmosphere was calm and comfortable, with dim lighting, apple cider, and donuts. First-year Julia Sapienza attended the event and said, “It was cool that everyone was supporting each other.

Even though there weren’t many people who read, everyone was still very supportive of one another. It was nice having people come together to share their writing.” The event was the perfect way to unwind after a long week and welcome a rainy, fall weekend.

The Writing Center is deciding how often to hold the event. They are thinking about hosting it once a month, but it will also depend on how many people will want to read in the future.

First-year Shira Gould is a staff writer. Her email is sgould@fandm.edu.

By TCR