Meet the Editors: Mae McDermott

By Matthew Gardner

Illustrations by Georgia Riordan

Mae McDermott is a junior Writing major and English minor and the heart of the Stillwater team. She currently serves as Co-Editor-in-Chief. Mae is observant and empathetic, a sharp and compassionate editor who is always ready with tender words of encouragement and a presence that can enliven Zoom rooms. She crafts small steps and clear plans—points to check in and say, ‘hey, friend.’

The same diligence that helps us find rhythm in our work is a feature of her own creative process too, making manageable the oft-punishing work of writing. And it works—no detail is out of place. Mae’s work is precise and heartfelt.

She is a visual artist and a singer too. Drawing influence from the entrancing lyricism of Adrianne Lenker, Laura Marling, Sufjan Stevens, and the poems-turned-choral-works of Sara Teasdale, Mae’s writing sings. Her investigations of personal history—in her words—“chase a troubling thought until it’s final, reveling in the end, the rush of display, an essay on the mantle, a painting on the refrigerator..”

Mae has had essays published in Oakland Arts Review, borrowed solace, and Loose Tooth; and has had her poetry read on the podcast Newcomers.