Author: Leah Glowacki
On Tuesday Nov. 18, while some students scurried to afternoon classes and others rushed to club meetings, a small group of Oxy community members were secluded from commotion, united in their appreciation for poetry.
Molly Quinn (junior) and Conor Anderson (sophomore), presidents of Oxy Writers’ Workshop (O.W.W.), planned the poetry reading as part of a larger effort to bring Oxy’s writers together. “We are trying to unify the creative writing community on campus,” Anderson said. O.W.W., a student-run organization, encourages creative writing through twice-weekly peer editing workshops and facilitated writing exercises. It also sponsors open-mic parties, formal readings, and trips to readings in Los Angeles throughout the semester.
After brief opening statements by O.W.W.’s presidents, the reading began with a poem and short story by Alison Kjeldgaard (senior). Following Kjeldgaard, Quinn shared three poems that are part of a longer series about her childhood experiences in Memphis, Tennessee.
Next, Valerie Savior ’85, director of the Career Development center and Pre-Law Advisor, whose work has appeared in several publications, delivered the first section of a manuscript in-progress. According to Savior, her collection of poems was inspired by a profound experience in Japan. Departing the country instigated Savior’s intimate relationship with nostalgia, the theme of her collection.
Knar Gavin’s poems contrasted with preceding pieces. They employed basic objects, including lobsters and turtles, to explore complex subjects. Gavin finds abundant inspiration in the world that surrounds her. “My inspiration comes from personal experiences, tragedy, childhood, probably dreams, children’s stories, and also just reading different poetry,” she said.
Anderson, a member of the spoken word community, was the last student reader. The energy of his performance proved Anderson’s passion for poetry.
Martha Ronk, ECLS Professor, and author of eight books of poetry, concluded Tuesday’s event. In 2005, Ronk received PEN USA’s Literary Award For Poetry for her book, In a Landscape of Having to Repeat (2004). She was also awarded first place in the 2006 National Poetry Series Open Competition for the book Vertigo (2007). Ronk read poems from each prizewinner and shared their inspirations. She indicated that several of her published poems were the result of a poetic post card correspondence that explored the repetitive nature of daily life.
A relief from standard shuffle through creative expression and appreciation was enjoyable for the performers and audience members that attended the reading. Students who shared their work had been encouraged to participate in the event by O.W.W.’s leadership. They are grateful for the experience. ” It is a great opportunity to share writing,” Gavin said.
Audience members’ laughter, applause, and silent attentiveness suggested their enjoyment. Alex Stuessey-Williams (sophomore) described the poetry reading as “a great way for students and professors to share their passions.” The event’s merger of faculty and student talent was unique. It dissolved the poets’ customary positions as novices and instructors, leaving only the shared role of creative writer and an opportunity to demonstrate and celebrate common talent.
Though Tuesday’s poetry reading lacked the cheering that shook our stands at the Homecoming Football game, it similarly epitomized Occidental’s infamous energy. Footballs were replaced by pen and paper, team captains by two aspiring writers, players by poets, and an orange cheer block by a smaller crowd that, despite their less boisterous response, were equally excited to relish in Occidental’s accomplishment.
This article has been archived, for more requests please contact us via the support system.
