In celebration of the centennial of Faulkner's birth, the conference will focus both on the present situation of Faulkner studies and its future. On the one hand, what is the position of Faulkner in American and Southern literature and culture? What constitutes his importance? What are the texts that make him necessary, and how should we read them? In a word, why Faulkner? On the other hand, what are the issues that scholars and critics need to address? Is there a Faulkner still to emerge, and what are his defining qualities? What is likely to be, what should be, the directions of further discussion?

Authors whose papers are selected for presentation at the conference will receive (1) a waiver of the conference registration fee, (2) lodging at the University Alumni House from Sunday, July 27, through Friday, August 1, and (3) reimbursement of travel expenses within the continental United States ($.30 a mile by automobile or tourist-class air fare). Papers presented at the conference will be published by the University Press of Mississippi.

The 14th edition of the University of Chicago Manual of Style should be used as a guide in preparing manuscripts (3,000 to 6,000 words). Three copies of manuscripts must be submitted by January 15, 1997.

Notification of selection will be made by March 1, 1997. Manuscripts and inquiries about papers should be addressed to Ann J. Abadie, Center for the Study of Southern Culture, The University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677. Telephone: 601-232-5993.