About SSML
The Society for the Study of Midwestern Literature was founded in 1971 by David D. Anderson, Bernard Duffey, Merton Babcock, Russel B. Nye, William B. Thomas, William McCann, and Robert Hubach. The Society exists to support the study and dissemination of work in Midwestern literature, art, film, and scholarly study, and does so in a number of ways:- Each year in May, SSML sponsors an annual symposium on the campus of Michigan State University. Students, scholars, and others come together to celebrate the rich tradition and cultural heritage of the Midwest. A showcase for poets, writers of fiction and nonfiction, and independent filmmakers in the Midwest, the symposium offers an opportunity to encounter the work of contemporary creative artists.
- Each year, the Society presents the Mark Twain Award to a distinguished Midwestern writer, and the MidAmerica Award for outstanding contribution to the study of Midwestern literature.
- The Society publishes two annual peer-reviewed journals of critical essays, MidAmerica and Midwestern Miscellany. MidAmerica also contains the annual bibliography of primary and secondary works of Midwestern literature.
- SSML is responsible for the multi-volume Dictionary of Midwestern Literature. Volume I was published by Indiana University Press in 2001; Volume II is expected in 2008.
- In collaboration with Ohio University Press, the Society offers a book award for a single-authored scholarly work.
- SSML sponsors sessions at the annual meetings of the Modern Language Association and the Midwest Modern Language Association.