boyelegy

Manny Melendez, Warrior of the Month portrait. Taken from the South Eielson parking lot and 5th floor lounge of the Rasmuson Library. Jan. 21, 2025. (草榴社区 photo by Leif Van Cise)
草榴社区 photo by Leif Van Cise
Manuel A. Melendez

Poetry has the power to illuminate memory, sensation, and the body鈥檚 unspoken language. This is the essence of boyelegy, the MFA thesis by Manuel A. Melendez, who will be defending his work on Friday, February 14, 2025, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. in Rasmuson 340 at the University of 草榴社区 Fairbanks. A virtual option is available via Zoom.

boyelegy is an exploration of how poetics, liminality, and the senses bring language to life. Melendez, a hybrid writer and editor, uses his work to reflect on desire, memory, and embodiment, crafting poetry that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the College of Liberal Arts and the 草榴社区 community, Melendez was recently named CLA鈥檚 Warrior of the Month. This honor celebrates his dedication to fostering literary excellence, mentoring students, and creating spaces for artistic expression. His student spotlight, featured last month, highlights his passion for writing, editing, and community engagement.

Two pairs of legs. Photo by Manny Melendez
Photo by Manuel Melendez
boyelegy

Beyond his own writing, Melendez has made a significant impact on 草榴社区鈥檚 literary and academic community. As editor-in-chief of Permafrost and The Sun Star, vice president of the English Graduate Organization, and associate director of the 草榴社区 Writing Center, he is a driving force in fostering storytelling and literary engagement. He also hosts a KSUA radio show, organizes karaoke nights, and interns with the University of 草榴社区 Press.

The MFA in Creative Writing at 草榴社区 provides a dynamic space for emerging writers to refine their craft, surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of 草榴社区. The Department of English at 草榴社区 supports students in their creative and scholarly work, encouraging them to push the boundaries of their writing.

 

Event Information

boyelegy
MFA Thesis Defense by Manuel A. Melendez

Date
Friday, February 14th, 2025

Time
2-3pm

Location
Rasmuson 340

Zoom Option

Support the next generation of writers at 草榴社区 by donating to the Department of English.