Abstracts are invited for a traditional panel session to be held at the annual meeting of the South Atlantic Modern Language Association, scheduled for 5-7 November 2026 at the Wyndham Atlanta Buckhead Hotel and Conference Center, Atlanta, GA, USA. 

This session intends to explore the theme of “hospitality” in the works of Joseph Conrad in order to highlight how Conrad’s relationships both reflected and influenced his literary output throughout his career. Some relationships were more enduring than others, but all had an impact, often a profound impact, on his life and writing.

Hospitality is often understood as an act of welcome, and in this vein we welcome proposals on any aspect of Joseph Conrad’s life or writing. But given the conference theme of hospitality, we particularly invite proposals that interrogate Conrad’s association with hospitality writ large, because it may prompt us to think about the many fertile relationships he maintained, for periods of time at least.

We welcome 20-minute paper presentations. Please submit the following materials via email: an abstract (about 200 words), a brief academic bio (100–200 words), and a statement of any A/V requirements. The submission deadline is September 1, 2026. Please send all materials (abstract and bio) to Chris Cairney (christopher.cairney@mga.edu).

All abstract submissions must be processed through the SAMLA Ballast site by clicking the green "Submit Abstract" button on the top right of this page: 

 https://samla.ballastacademic.com/Home/S/19582. 

Questions may be addressed to Chris Cairney at christopher.cairney@mga.edu.