CONNOTATIONS: Join the Student Literary Magazine!
CONNOTATIONS: Join the Student Literary Magazine!
Students interested in literature, art, and photography will want to learn more about the Literary Magazine here at FHS. (Photo: CONNOTATIONS Volume 42)
By Sammy Ata
January 20, 2026, 10:00 a.m.
Starting January 20th--the beginning of CAP week--all freshmen, sophomores, and juniors will begin selecting courses for the upcoming school year. Out of all the available classes, one of the most intriguing electives offered is the student-led Literary Magazine (Litmag). Within the class, 23 students submit a piece of writing, photography, or art weekly, each member working hard to improve their artistic abilities. At the end of the year, their creations are finally released in the award-winning publication CONNOTATIONS. Seeking dedicated students who love and enjoy literature, Litmag applications are open and are due January 27th!
In the Litmag, members will usually anonymously submit a piece every week. During class, each piece is shown and voted on during discussion. Maria Dumond—head editor of the Litmag—explains the review process, “[after reading pieces] an open discussion occurs that is led by the section editor where staff members share constructive critique, suggestions, and praise. After several people have voiced their opinions, we vote by a simple majority to either ‘consider’ or ‘reject’ the piece by raising our hands. ‘Considered’ pieces will move into final review at the end of the year, while ‘rejected’ pieces have the opportunity to be edited and submitted based on our feedback.” Students who are not currently in Litmag can also submit pieces to be reviewed; the last day to do so is January 31st.
Artwork from a previous edition of the CONNOTATIONS Literary Magazine. (Photo: CONNOTATIONS Volume 36)
(Photo: CONNOTATIONS Volume 38)
Litmag is a great way to creatively express yourself during the school year. Member Jude Brown describes what persuaded him to join: “Writing has always been an enticing art form, but it feels like the only classes that allow you to write creatively are fairly late into the high school experience…I thought of it [Litmag] as an opportunity to practice some creative writing skills that were not necessary before.” Litmag gives students the chance to practice their prose and publish it, which is a unique opportunity at FHS.
When asked what the most fun part about Litmag is, member Piper Sullivan—current senior—writes, “the most fun part of being in Litmag is seeing a piece that you’ve worked really hard on get praised in review. Especially when others point out small details that you added, it’s such a gratifying experience.” Feedback and improvement are key aspects of Litmag. Resubmission of rejected pieces is encouraged; learning from your peers and building connections is a strong part of the Litmag experience.
Litmag is a chance for students to not only learn how to become a better writer and artist, but also to enjoy doing it! Malia Coggins reflects on why she joined: “I wanted something that I could contribute to, and being [a part] of the Literary Magazine is perfect for that.” Students looking to expand their writing horizons by joining one of the most unique and creative classes at FHS should apply before January 27th!