The Scribbler: MCC’s literary tradition gets a fresh look
Fate is the theme this year for The Scribbler, Meridian Community College’s revived literary magazine.
And for editor Amy LaFleur, it’s also the word to describe the history of student and community voices that the publication continues to celebrate. LaFleur serves as the College’s assistant librarian.
The publication, once known by names such as Prattle and Plot, The Apocalypse, and Literary Review, traces its roots back to the 1950s, and throughout the decades, it has featured poetry, short stories, and essays from high school students, MCC students, and community writers.
Now, with a new name and a digital format, the publication is opening its doors wider than ever.
“We wanted a fresh start,” LaFleur said. “The Scribbler feels more fun and inviting while still honoring the tradition. It’s about helping people find their voice and share their perspective.”
This year’s theme, “Fate,” invites writers to explore destiny, choice, and life’s turning points.
Submissions are open to students in grades 10–12 from public, private, and homeschool backgrounds; MCC and Mississippi State University-Meridian students; and community members age 18 and older.
Categories include poetry, short stories, and creative nonfiction essays.
The deadline to submit is Friday, Nov. 21, at 5 p.m. Winners will be announced in the spring, with first, second, and third place prizes of $75, $50, and $25 given by the MCC Foundation. Honorable mentions may also be published in the magazine.
A team of three judges will review entries, with the final magazine design created by students in the College’s Graphic Design Technology Program. The finished publication is expected to be released online in late Spring 2026.
LaFleur said the variety of voices is what makes The Scribbler special. “What a tenth grader writes about fate might look very different from what a 35-year-old writes,” she said. “Bringing those perspectives together in one place is what makes this magazine powerful.”
For more information about The Scribbler and how to submit entries, visit the MCC Student Success Center.