Poetry has been a substantial part of the world’s literature for thousands of years, yet it seems to go unnoticed, similar to how people view Northwest’s Poetry Club.

   The Poetry Club was created last year by Sophomore Audrey Davis and English teacher Nick Gaffney. They both enjoy reading and writing poems and want to share that love with the rest of the school.

  During club meetings, there is usually a central theme on the board for the main focus, although no one is forced to write about that prompt. Videos or picture examples are also displayed for inspiration. Following a short discussion of the prompt, everyone gets an opportunity to write their poem, followed by a moment to share poetry, if desired. 

  “I really enjoy the way the club is run,” said Davis. “It’s just a good group, and every meeting is fun for everyone.”

  Davis enjoys longer, meaningful poems as they tend to show more emotion within the words, but she does not mind hearing shorter ones. Gaffney, the club adviser, frequently enjoys including slam poetry in his club activities plans. It is more attention-grabbing than a standard poem someone would read.

   “Slam poetry is a fantastic way to get people interested in what poetry is or could look like when put into your own words,” said Gaffney.

  Though she is a student, Davis was the main reason the poetry club was started. Because she did not see a lot of poetry in the school, by creating this club, she would be able to shed light on poetry.

  “One of my students, Audrey Davis, saw my love for poetry and thought it would be great to explore poetry further by creating a club here at Northwest,” said Gaffney.

  The club is not only for expressing feelings and hobbies but also offers various opportunities to aspiring young writers. Each month, there is an opportunity for poems to be published in Jackson Magazine. Additionally, students are informed about national and international contests to get their work published.

  “Poetry is incredibly personal, but it can change lives when opened up to others to read or hear,” said Gaffney.

  Although not many students are aware, the Poetry Club is growing and is open for anyone to express feelings through paper and pencil and a love for poetic language.