James Pegler
  • UTP
  • Class of 2014
  • Columbia, TN

James Pegler Takes 1st Place in National Writing Contest

2014 Jun 19

James Pegler, a 2014 Columbia State graduate and Columbia resident, won this year's 2014 National Literary Analysis Writing Contest given by Sigma Kappa Delta, the national English honors society. His winning essay, "Burning Decay and Destruction Down," will be published in the society's journal, "Hedera Helix."

Pegler wrote on Sharon Olds' "Late Poem to My Father," which deals with three generations of abuse in the speaker's family and the effect that it has on each following generation. Pegler's command of language and understanding of the poem is apparent in his concluding statements.

"The redemption and resolution of this poem is the fact that Olds recognizes the torment of her father and responds with an empathetic love for the child that had to endure such abuse," Pegler wrote.

"The society couldn't have asked for a more dedicated and motivated individual at its helm," said Brittany Hall, instructor of English and sponsor of Columbia State's Sigma Kappa Delta chapter.

"James comes to the class room already very knowledgeable, a sign that he observes, understands, and connects the 'outside' world with the academic. His writing is superb both in style and content," added Beverly Mitchell, professor of English.

Pegler was also a member of the international honors society, Phi Theta Kappa, and was a member of the All-Tennessee academic team. He received the 2014 Humanities Award, served as a Peer Leader, and was nominated for the Jo L. Hutton Outstanding Student Award. In addition, his poem, "Mirrored Crystal Falls," was recently published in the Columbia State literary journal, "Perceptions."

"When I came to school here, I didn't know if I was capable of doing well," Pegler said. "The faculty and staff have shown me that I have what is needed to succeed."

An Auburn, Calif. native, Pegler plans to attend East Tennessee State University in the fall where he can pursue his interest in history and anthropology. He intends to continue his education through the doctoral level and ultimately teach at a college or university.