The Eudora Welty Writers' Symposium

The Eudora Welty Writers' Symposium, themed Like a Visitor from Nowhere and inspired by Eudora Welty's story Moon Lake, is an esteemed annual event held at the Mississippi University for Women (MUW) in Columbus, United States. This symposium, honoring the literary legacy of one of the university's most celebrated alumna, takes place in October and invites a diverse group of Southern writers and scholars to present their work. The event aims to explore the unique encounters and themes present in Southern literature, particularly those that resonate with the uncanny aspects of identity and place.A significant highlight of the symposium is the announcement of the prestigious Eudora Welty Prize, awarded for an unpublished book of scholarship. This prize emphasizes the symposium's commitment to promoting literary scholarship and honoring the continuing influence of Eudora Welty's work. The symposium is free and open to the public, allowing a wide audience to engage with the literary discussions and presentations. This initiative is supported by the Friends of the Welty Series, showcasing a collaborative effort to preserve and celebrate the Southern literary tradition. The symposium not only serves as a platform for established and emerging writers but also fosters a community of literary enthusiasts from across the USA, making it a significant event in the annual literary calendar.