With topics like Harlem Renaissance river symbolism and queer linguistics in “Call Me By Your Name,” seven junior Cubs presented synthesized literary material at the Archer School of Girls’ annual “Lit &…” Conference. Having been hosted by Archer for 14 years, this conference provides an outlet for high school students across Los Angeles to present their literary intellect. The ten-minute presentations ranged from gender theory to a creative storytelling panel.
Justin Jacobo ‘26, who presented at this year’s conference on capitalism in Jean-Michel Basquiat’s artistry, claimed, “It was an invaluable opportunity to showcase talent while gaining experience in research, literary analysis, and presentation within a short but intensive time frame.”
With such a tight timeline to create the presentation, Thomas Marsh, AP English III teacher and longtime supporter of the conference, interpreted the opportunity as an “added unit to the junior English curriculum.”
While the conference occurred at Archer, students from nine different schools filled the panels with nuanced and diverse perspectives. For Archer senior Madeleine Beaubaire, the event is “first and foremost an opportunity for connection” with other schools.
Anthony Murphy ‘26 commented, “It was awesome to see themes and ideas rarely explored in class at this conference.”
Archer junior Chloe Kirk on the “Framing the Page” panel, a cohort focused on literature’s intersection within the arts, synthesized “The Handmaid’s Tale” and used her musical talents to create an original composition, adding a personal and creative touch to her analysis.
Marsh was particularly fond of how Loyola’s students covered “an array of topics that include all forms of contemporary media” including “black existentialism in the lyrics of Kendrick Lamar.”
The seven juniors’ success can be attributed to Loyola’s AP English curriculum.
“Skills like abstract writing and sourcing coalesced with our discussions on post-structuralism and the malleability of language helped produce a presentation we were proud of,” Declan Meyer ‘26 shared.
The annual conference, attended by Loyola for seven years, provides an outlet to flex the literary analysis muscles that have been strengthened throughout the school year.
“Our participation allows us to measure the rigor of our literature and writing curriculum against other top local independent schools, ensuring that we rank with the very best students in Los Angeles,” Marsh added.
This year, honored with the most invites out of any school in Los Angeles, Loyola continues its reputation for excellence. In the coming years, students should seek out this special opportunity. It’s a prestigious event that pushes the boundaries of existing analysis skills within Loyola’s classrooms, allowing students to always strive for intellectual originality and curiosity.
