Welcome to the American Literature community! We’re so happy you’re here and we want you take full advantage of the opportunities our new platform provides. Please read over the code of conduct so we can continue to ensure a safe and supportive space for all. Thank you for your dedication to the Popular Culture Association!

 

Call For Papers

 

The area seeks to represent the diversity and vibrancy of American literature and literary studies. We accept presentations about works in any genre(s) of American literature, from the colonial era to the twenty-first century. We welcome a range of critical approaches. Papers may consider literary representations, explore historical implications and their impact presently, offer theoretical readings, draw thematic parallels, and/or adopt other interpretive paradigms. The area also encourages proposals that examine intersections of American literature and popular culture—such as film, music, television, theater, visual arts, and fashion—and those that analyze race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, and national and individual identity in American literature.

 

Please submit an abstract of 200-250 words through the PCA submission database. Decisions pertaining to the status of proposals will be communicated by the area chair within two weeks of receipt. Submissions will only be accepted through the PCA website. Individuals must be current, paid members to submit to the conference.

 

If you would like more information, or if you have any questions, please contact the American Literature Area Chair: Dr. Jillian L. Wenburg at jl@jillianwenburg.com .

 

 

Important Dates to Remember:

 

• Database opens for Submissions - Sept. 1, 2025
• Early Bird Registration Begins - Sept. 1, 2025
• Deadline for Paper Proposals - Nov. 30, 2025
• Travel Grant Applications Due - Dec. 15, 2025
• Early Bird Registration Ends for Presenters - Dec. 31, 2025
• Regular Registration Begins for Presenters - Jan. 1, 2026 
• Travel Grant Decisions / Notifications - Jan. 31, 2026
• Regular Registration Ends for Presenters - Jan. 31, 2026
• Late Registration Starts for Presenters - Feb. 1, 2026
• Preliminary Program draft available - Feb. 6, 2026

 

Those Presenters Not Registered by Feb. 15 Will be Dropped from the Program

 

CONFERENCE IN ATLANTA, GA - April 8-11, 2026