The launch party of Live Wire allows local literary talent to shine

Wednesday, Sept. 18 was Live Wire Literary Journal’s launch party as well as a continuation of the festivities of the Centennial year.

The publication was entirely funded by the Centennial Foundation, mentioned by executive editor Skye Lyon.

“It’s all community based, all local writers and artists,” said Lyon.

Copies of the journal were being sold for $5 each.

Many of the writers are attending or have attended Fullerton College, but the journal also features writers from all over Orange County.

As guests took their seats, the event began with the writers presenting excerpts from their works to the audience.

The literary pieces presented were not only diverse but also contained quite mature language. Many of the writers were not afraid to use explicit language or descriptions of sexual experiences in front of the audience.

“I wanted to write something unsettling,” said former FC student Randy Solis on the intention behind his piece.

His piece “Cloud Rose” is a poem that borrowed influences from the ‘60s, especially the race relations of that era.

Lindsey Reagen, a writer and editor, described her writing experience as coming in bursts.

“I was at home watching this crime show, and I got my first line, then it just spiraled from there,” said Reagen.

“I think the Centennial is a milestone, an accumulation of achievement and growth, just like this journal,” said Rodger Perez, English instructor and co-faculty advisor of Live Wire.

This journal took approximately a year and a half to complete, according to the editors. But the planning began as early as Spring 2012.

“We hope to accomplish getting the funding to do this online or another issue in the future,” said Lyon.

Copies of the journal will continue to be sold throughout the year at various FC open mic nights and other events.