Submissions are open now for our FALL COLLECTION 2026, from Sept. 1-Oct. 1.
The theme for The Way Back to Ourselves Literary Journal’s Fall Collection 2026 is ROOTED, which is a continuation of the powerful summer retreat we just hosted in historic downtown Greenville, SC. Our fall theme is based on Jeremiah 17:7-8. Click below to learn about all of the details and resources we curated.
The Fall Collection: TO THE MOUNTAINS
MASTHEAD
Sarah Steele, senior editor
Ashley Whittemore, editor
Kimberly Kralovic, editor
Heather Lobe Johnson, editor
Kimberly Phinney, editor-in-chief
Listen to the poets of The Way Back to Ourselves Literary Journal perform their work with our podcast, The Poetry Corner, a spin-off from The Way Back Podcast, hosted by Edward Holmes and Deidre Braley.
Four Mountains in Fugue and Fine Art
In her poem “Four Mountains in Fugue,” Alison Giles reminds us of the highs and lows of life and how God meets us in each of them. Her mixed media reflects the diversity of colors and landscapes God uses to bring glory to His name.
Creatio Ex Nihilo
Journey with Kimberly Phinney to the iconic mountains of the Bible and the important events that happened there in her poem “Creatio Ex Nihilo.” Also enjoy her original watercolors, all inspired by the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
Winding My Way Toward Peace
Elizabeth Wickland explores the history of a mountain, all that has happened there, and who it formerly belonged to in both her poem “Winding My Way Toward Peace” and her watercolor “The Valley of the Flowers.”
Descent to Grace
Influenced by the Christian allegory, Pilgrim’s Progress, Sarah Steele takes us on a hike in “Descent to Grace,” represented as well by her photography and watercolor art.
I Am a Wildflower, in Need: Poetry and Fine Art
Erin Stinson finds what she needs in the wild gardens of nature and tells about it in her poetry and fine art.
God Has Working Hands: Poetry and Fine Art
In her poetry and fine art, Hannah Sanders imagines the working hands of Jesus in the Garden.
A Shoot from the Stump of Jesse: Poetry and Fine Art
Allison Giles pairs poetry, original art, and Biblical truths in “A Shoot from the Stump of Jesse” and “Catalpa.”
Start your journey.
It starts today— in the small steps you take, the hands you hold, the prayers you say, the art you make, and the hard things you conquer… The way back isn’t as far as you think.
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