by Channler Twyman

“You write in order to change the world, knowing perfectly well that you probably can’t, but also knowing that literature is indispensable to the world. The world changes according to the way people see it, and if you alter, even but a millimeter the way people look at reality, then you can change it. “  —James Baldwin.

I am hoping that this thought-provoking and profound quote from the OG James Baldwin will preoccupy you long enough to distract you from the fact that I haven’t written an article in over a year. I offer you my sincerest apologies, dear readers, but life got the best of me and my dear friend and COO of Siblíní, Kat Neis, as we finished our last year of college (spoiler alert: we graduated—barely!). But in all seriousness, we did choose to focus on finishing our undergraduate careers as strong as possible, so we could finally have enough time to dedicate towards producing content for Siblíní.

What does this mean? Well, for starters, it means more consistent content. Not just from me, but from many other young and upcoming writers and contributors. The world is overflowing with young creatives who desperately want their voices to be heard and here at Siblíní, we hope they can visit our site and feel their voices being represented as authentically and unapologetically as possible.

Okay, okay—this sounds good and all, but what is going to happen to Channler’s Corner? I’m glad you asked, beloved reader! Unfortunately, Channler’s Corner has got to go—the name I mean! I can’t claim that my article promotes inclusivity and representation in literature if the title doesn’t reflect that. However, other than the name change, it will essentially be the same. I will continue writing book reviews for works written by queer authors and authors of color, doing author spotlights, and writing pieces dedicated to important literary moments in history involving marginalized writers, discussions about representation and discrimination in the literary world, and venting—lots and lots of venting. Maybe even entire interview spreads, who knows?

I believe the best part about no longer being a full-time student anymore is that now I don’t have to think about school 24/7. I can dedicate it to improving my own craft and creating content that I am truly invested in and want to represent my voice—content like my work on Siblíní. I hope you all continue to stick with us for the ride.

There is no such thing as too much representation when it comes to highlighting and uplifting the voices of marginalized people. We can always do more. We can always become better writers and even greater people. I want my column to be a space that promotes positivity and welcomes every voice. Because everyone has something important to say—that is, unless what you have to say promotes hatred or dehumanizes or belittles any group of people, then I highly encourage you to seek out other online literary outlets.

And what is the new name going to be? Well, you’ll have to come back later this week to find that out.

Eternally yours,
Chann

— Channler Twyman is a writer who hails from South Georgia where his love for literature began at the age of two. He currently attends the College of Wooster where he continues to foster his craft. Although, he has a passion for the literary arts, he still hopes for the day where he achieves his final form and is able to battle the forces of evil as a Sailor Scout.