Bravura is defined as a “daring display of brilliant skill.”

Every Spring semester since 1964, dedicated English major students bustle through the weeks crafting and publishing a literary journal.

Bravura illustrates the talents Palomar students and alum possess in poetry, non-fiction works and photography.

Before production starts, the class begins as an advanced creative writing class.

The two advisers, Rocco Versaci and Carlton Smith, teach the students the basic necessities to design the journal, but the students have the floor to make their own decisions.

“Bravura is a point of connection that unites so many different voices on our diverse campus and it’s in many ways a testament to the need to continue to support and fund the arts at Palomar,” Carlton said.

The talent amongst the students who submit their works, never ceases to amaze both the teachers and the students.

Several of the pieces incorporated in this literary journal are written from the students in the class, ENG 137.

Daniel Bonds is one of the students who helped decide which poems encompassed their theme.

“I have always had a passion for writing, and now I finally get to edit them,” Bonds said.

He also has a poem in the journal divulging the difficulties of having muscular dystrophy.

Rickety Ram worked alongside Bonds and other students to decide what poetry will be printed.

There wasn’t really a specific theme, but Ram focused on works with “real artistic merit.”

“The biggest thing we look for are for things that are really concrete, with big abstractions, it is more impactful,” Ram stated.

The students, for the first time, decided to branch out to local high schools in Vista, Escondido, Rancho Bernardo and Temecula. The high schoolers had the opportunity to gain recognition and awards. The top three winners in non-fiction and poetry will receive award money at the Bravura Gala May 18.

The Gala will be hosted from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in P-32. Anyone is welcomed to attend. Bravura is a free publication and will be available at the Gala, as well as throughout our campus kiosks.

“It’s the celebration of the artistic voices here on campus,” Carlton concluded.

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