In collaboration with the Crowder Theatre Department, for the 2021 contest, the Quill encourages entries focused on the theme of current events, social issues, and the global pandemic. Entries may be in any of the categories. In addition to the usual placement in the magazine, The Theatre Department will select entries to be performed on stage in April.

The author may participate in the performance as an option. Art and photography will be chosen for a multimedia presentation during the performance as well.

Entries may be subtly tied to the theme of the impact of current events. For example, a photograph of a landscape may include the photographer’s note that nature provides a solace from the stress of current circumstances as well as an opportunity to “social distance.” A more direct entry might be a painting that included face masks.