Definitions of “meme”

(1) an image, video, piece of text, etc., typically humorous in nature, that is copied and spread rapidly by internet users, often with slight variations.

(2) an element of a culture or system of behavior passed from one individual to another by imitation or other nongenetic means.

Why a zine named after memes?

MEMEZINE believes that memes not only inspire art, literature, and poetry, but that they also hold artistic merit in and of themselves. Whether or not we are aware, interacting with a meme is a way of engaging in a larger cultural moment.

And, like, they can make us laugh.

They’re also a means of forming connection in ways that cannot be put into simple words. Memes are increasingly recognized as “tools of social commentary and political discourse” that “can help us better understand the relationship between culture and technology…and the relationship between memes and power” (Dale & Murphy; Zidani). And yet, the meme can also be completely unserious, puzzling, absurd. The nature of its versatility is exactly why we think it should be the namesake of our literary zine. The meme is art, is literature, is power.

What we’re looking for:

We want to see stuff that blurs the lines between art, literature, and content. Send any work (traditional or hybrid format) that engages with memes, viral content, apps, trends, social media, pop/internet culture, and technology. If you’re not sure your work fits, send it anyway! Gift us your best and your worst because we want to explore all facets of participation in this digital landscape.

MEMEZINE is dedicated to uplifting neurodiverse, disabled, queer, trans, BIPOC, women, and working class voices.

The vibe:

Masthead

Chel Campbell (Editor & Founder)

Chel is a neuro-spicy poet living in Sioux Falls, South Dakota and is trying really hard to win the local snowplow naming contest. She is also the social media editor for Pithead Chapel and author of Everything We Name is Precious, her debut full-length poetry collection forthcoming from Milk & Cake Press in September 2024. Their work has appeared in numerous journals, including New Delta Review, trampset, Pithead Chapel, and more. They don’t bite if you approach them slowly with a treat in your open palm <3

Clicky McHandFace (Assistant Editor)

A sentient being with free will, Clicky McHandFace assists Chel by scrolling, typing, clicking, tapping, and more! Clicky will somehow give you two big thumbs WAY up. Clicky is also a fan of being moisturized, and their favorite letter to write is B (it looks like a sideways butt). If you’re reading this and you’re like, “Wow, I really want to help Chel and Clicky with MEMEZINE because I’m excited about this project, I have some skills, and the team seems normal and alive,” you’re in luck! We’ll be looking for volunteer editors and readers in the near-or-distant future. It all just kind of depends, friends! :)