Splinter People by Kelly Stoldt My mother has announced her worry That living in a single dorm room is bad for me. She asks if I’ve been socializing If I’ve made friends Leaves out “since the last time.” I tell her I’ve gotten really close with my mattress (It goes by many names and I… More Slam at the Benton: “Splinter People” by Kelly Stoldt (2017)

The Anthem by Mary Kozan i. The bungalow colony was in its heydey. Blondes unfurled Their legs on plastic deck chairs, laughing like advertisements Over bottles of Coca-Cola. Their children pissed in the pool and shrieked With joy. Tits sagged in one-piece floral bathing suits. My grandmother (then, in the throes of beauty) waded in… More Slam at the Benton: “The Anthem” by Mary Kozan (2017)

Calm the Storm by Shantel Honeyghan