Ode to the Print Edition

The time has finally come
That we bid farewell to thee,
Although this makes us terribly glum
We knew it eventually had to be.

Born on campus in the year of 1955
To spread news throughout the tiger community,
The print edition would grow and thrive
While creating journalistic opportunity.

Like the tiger after whom you were named,
Crafted by writers with fierce devotion,
Your pages carried stories intended and aimed
To give voice to those unheard and with a notion.

From Speaker’s Circle to dining halls
You traveled MU’s campus far and wide.
In backpack, by hand, on bike, through walls
On distribution day you were passed out with pride.

On occasion, in trash cans you were left behind,
Your memory freshly present on ink stained fingers,
Unfinished crosswords still on our mind,
Your centerfold ads flying through the wind to linger.

Although we are sad to see your physical form go,
Missing your ink and paper scent that filled our lungs,
We are eager and hopeful to see you digitally grow
As you live on through screens as zeros and ones.

You served us long,
You served us well,
That’ll do, beloved print edition
We bid you a sentimental farewell.

Edited by Ever Cole, ecole@themaneater.com
Copy edited by Sam Barrett and Lauren Courtney