There are many clubs around Hastings High School that either kids are not aware of or dismissed by the faculty and staff. Poetry Live is just one of those clubs that many students do not know what they are missing out on.
Poetry Live has been run and organized by Mrs. Bartling as well as Mrs. Rowe for three years now, with students meeting every Tuesday and Friday after school to recite and discuss poetry.
A system is in place so that every student is recognized and appreciated for being vulnerable through their writing
“After each poem is read we snap our fingers to show that we like it and give feedback to the author and discuss the poem,” Rowe said.
After many students had told Mrs. Bartling about their love for poetry and writing, she knew she wanted to make a club or group where these same students could further express themselves.
“Mrs. Bartling started the club because there were a large number of students who were expressing the desire to write poetry in a setting outside of the English classes we taught. She had several teachers and students who asked her to start the club,” Rowe said.
This club is open to anyone and everyone, no matter their skill sets or lack of experience with writing.
“Anyone who would like to write poetry can join. Even if you have never written one before but are interested, we would welcome you,” Rowe said.
Brandon Bruns, a junior and the president of Poetry Live, is grateful he has been able to find other students who share similar interests with him. He recognizes that poetry has been a great creative outlet for himself.“For me poetry is a way to express the way I’m feeling some draw some sing, and I wish more people could find that escape,” Bruns said.
