The sixteenth edition of the Madison Journal of Literary Criticism is an anthology of curated work and staff written pieces that responds to the harms of the carceral state with through the abolitionist lens of care, examining how concept of care feeds advocacy, sustains communities, and nurtures a better world into existence.
As our corresponding study group this semester engaged with topics of mutual aid and the Black Panther Party, restorative care, and exploring care through music, our publication conveys their multiple interpretations of “care.”
This edition includes personal recipes from MJLC staff and study group members, reflections from the 2025 Association of Writers and Writing Programs Conference, and a special collection of of students' work, commemorating and collectively mourning the 50th anniversary of the Fall of Saigon.
We are honored to present the work of these talented artists and visionaries with you all.