The Object: A Living Eulogy To The Printed Word

ft. Editor in Chief - Michael Smith

A new paper breathes life into Kansas City—The Object, a living eulogy to the printed word. Unlike any other, this newspaper is a delicate patchwork of art, which consists of fiction stories, poetry, plays, and astrology, stitched alongside photography, puzzles, and comic strips. It calls to artists and enthusiasts alike, promising them a treasure of true and unique writing. The first issue flew like birds off museum shelves, art galleries, and independent bookshops. And now, the second issue awaits its release on December 1st, 2024. Don’t let it slip through your fingers.

The mind behind this literary composition is Michael Smith, Editor in Chief. When I sat down with him, I was eager to understand the back story of The Object. He recounted a moment at a bowling alley, of all places, entranced by the simple beauty of antiquated machinery. The way the pins were swept away, the ball returned, a system unchanged since the 19th century because, well, it just works. But for how long, he wondered, before our minds etched with the glow of our digital screens will tire of it, and let bowling alleys vanish into memory? The same question lingered when it came to print. Newspapers, like those machines, were once unstoppable, but now they flicker on the edge of extinction.

That thought dug into Michael’s mind like an unrelenting gear, turning over and over. He started researching printing presses, only to find that Kansas City had none left—its closest relic was in Columbia, MO. The printed word was dying, and for Michael, this felt like proof. Yet for him, print has always been a lifeline, a constant. It became clear to him: before this chapter closes forever, it deserves a proper goodbye.

This is when The Object was born, a collaboration with local writers and artists to craft something beautiful, a gift of language and art, freely shared with the community. Smith, a master collaborator, has united this circle of creative minds to ignite inspiration in readers and purpose in contributors. Together, they offer a publication that seeks to transcend time.

The paper follows one rule—no journalism, no news that will tie the writing to the present. The stories in The Object are meant to live on, untouched by the ticking clock, remaining relevant in twenty years or more.

In a world where digital dominates, there is nothing more meaningful than gathering a community at the altar of art. This newspaper, free to all, is a testament to that. To touch, to hold, to feel, this newspaper is exactly that, a tangible connection to creativity. You won’t find it online or on social media. It’s a rare thing, it’s pure, unburdened by advertisements. 

If you're as inspired as I am, become a part of this unfolding story. Support The Object and its mission of keeping this art form alive and free for all by offering a gift. Visit theobjectkc.com/giving to learn more.