Call for Submissions - The Order of Nature: Anthology of Malaysian Queer Poetry

12 February 2013
Call for Submissions - The Order of Nature: Anthology of Malaysian Queer Poetry
Deadline: 28 February 2013

We are looking for poetry submissions for inclusion in a new anthology entitled “THE ORDER OF NATURE: An Anthology of Malaysian Queer Poetry”.

We are often preached, taught, informed, cajoled, threatened and persuaded by science, religion, education, law and folklore that there is only one type of sexuality between only two types of gender for one main purpose: heterosexual coupling between a man (penis) and a woman (vagina) for making babies. This image has been etched so firmly into our imagination that it has become the only possible reality - everything else falling outside of this neat formula becomes an unnatural deviation of logical divine order. But as poets and people know, life is often messy, diverse and chaotically fluid.

Poets are asked to explore the anthology’s title and theme: “The Order of Nature” as it is lived and experienced in Malaysia. This can be from various aspects of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersexed and/or queer experiences, including: love, sex and relationships; family and community; discrimination and acceptance; coming out, transitioning and self-discovery; youth and aging; hopes and fears; science, God, laws and “truth” etc.

POEMS WILL BE CHOSEN BASED ON THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA:
  • High quality of writing.
  • Originality and creativity in dealing with the theme.
  • References to Malaysian LGBTIQ experiences.
Note: Poets do not necessarily have to identify as LGBTIQ nor required to reveal their gender identity and/or sexual orientation. Poets don’t have to have Malaysian citizenship or PR to be eligible. Published and unpublished poets are most welcome to submit works.

SUBMISSION DETAILS:
  • Poets can submit up to six poems for consideration.
  • Poems submitted must be original and unpublished in print or online.
  • Poems written in English and Bahasa Malaysia will be accepted.
  • Each poem should not exceed 120 lines in length (count includes line breaks).
  • Poems should be sent as a .rtf or .doc attachment.
  • Please also include a 50-word bio of yourself.
Note: Poets may be asked to rework their submissions per editorial advice for successful inclusion.

Successful submissions will be informed via email before 31 March 2013. Successful poets will receive two complimentary copies of the anthology.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

For queries/ submissions: theorderofnature@gmail.com

Website: https://www.facebook.com/OrderOfNature
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