Emerging Scholars Organization

Leading the way in inclusion, networking, and support for the next generation of southern scholars

SSSL Biannual Newsletter

Keep informed about Society programs, future events, and the scholarly pursuits of southern literature scholars

The Society for the Study of Southern Literature Conference

Join us for the 2024 Society for the Study of Southern Literature’s biennial conference in Gulfport, MS.

Become A Member

Join the Society for the Study of Southern Literature and receive our newsletter, participate in conference panels, and attend the biennial SSSL conference

The Society for the Study of Southern Literature is a nonprofit organization founded in 1968 devoted to scholarship on writings and writers of the American South. Membership is open to all who have an interest in the literature of the South.

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Looking for our Newsletter?

SSSL has discontinued its digital newsletter. We are in the process of transitioning to a new tech committee format that will allow us to communicate with members across various platforms. If you’re interested in serving on this new initiative, please contact President Sherita Johnson. Click below to access the newsletter archives.

Statement on Diversity

The Society for the Study of Southern Literature is committed to social equality, critical and rigorous discourse about the U.S. South, and the voices of writers from various backgrounds.

We contest revisionist versions of southern history and culture that white supremacists have used to maintain racial hierarchies, inequality, and injustice. We support scholarship that examines the multiplicity and heterogeneity of both the past and present South. We encourage dynamic critical dialogue that examines and expands the borders of the region; that analyzes the region’s history of settler colonialism, slavery, segregation, misogyny, violence, and nativism; that engages the region’s literature and culture; and that implements multiple theoretical and critical perspectives. We support others who advocate for diversity, community, inclusivity, and equality.

Read our June 2020 statement on the public protests against racism and police brutality here.

What’s Happening @ SSSL

Call For Papers: Conferences, Publishing Opportunities & Fellowships

All the Latest News, Updates & Announcements from SSSL

Opportunity—and the Power of Membership

When you become a member of the Society for the Study of Southern Literature, you join a community of scholars, academics, writers, and readers of American southern culture. Our mission drives us to explore the foundations, challenges and diversity that southern literature has to offer. When you join SSSL you get access to our network, conference, and other resources.

The Emerging Scholars Organization

With the mission of fostering the careers of graduate students, recent PhDs, lecturers, adjunct/visiting/assistant professors, and scholars new to the field of southern studies,  the ESO offers a range of opportunities to for networking, innovating, and sharing resources.

ESO