Poets and Writers Kicks Off New Semester with “Centripetal” Release

As new semesters commence, there is always an indefinite amount of time where both students and faculty have to get back into the “swing” of things. For some, winter break was a time away from constantly needing to implement time management strategies, and a time where relaxation was the main focus.

Luckily for those at Plymouth State who have an interest in reading and writing, the Poets and Writers organization helped the campus community ease back into academia with artistic fun. The semester’s first “open mic” event last week, on February 13^th, was also the release of the fall semester’s issue of “Centripetal.”

“Centripetal” is PSU’s student-run publication, which can feature various genres of writing and artwork that have been submitted and selected by the Poets and Writers team.

The open mic event was held in the HUB Fireplace Lounge from 7-9 p.m., which was a change in venue. Open mics are usually held at the restaurant Burrito Me on Main Street. Poets and Writers president Olivia Hodsdon said regarding the new location for the gathering, “My vice president, Alex DiCentes, suggested that we expand our background and [use a] change of scenery to try and entice the people walking by. It’s more of a central location, as well; easy for people to get to.”

Though “Centripetal” features various forms of writing and art, Hodsdon said that Poets and Writers “exclusively” received poetry and short stories during the submission process. Around twenty pieces made it into the issue. In regard to putting the issue together, Hodsdon said, “At first, it seemed like one disaster after another. Nothing went right, and we were tearing our hair out trying to keep up with the punishing time frame. However, everything seemed to work out in the end, albeit a little after it was supposed to!”

Hodsdon, who is residing as president of Poets and Writers for her second semester, finds the open mics to be one of the best parts of the job. “That’s [open mics] my favorite part about being president. I love, love, love everyone that comes up and shares their incredible pieces of art,” Hodsdon said. 

In addition, Poets and Writers is a larger organization at the moment, as it always grows temporarily during spring semesters. The reason for this is that the English course Practicum in Publication (taught by Professor Joe Mealey) is held during springs, and is a class where students receive credit for either working for Poets and Writers or “The Clock.”

“We have about 6 new practicum kids. I haven’t met all of them yet, but those I have met seem eager to try new things and help out. I’m super grateful to have them, and pass on our poetry knowledge,” Hodsdon said.

Overall, Hodsdon was not only pleased with how the open mic/”Centripetal” release went; she was also excited about the “Centripetal” content and its authors. “These [issues] are the real deal, folks. These are the people whose names you’re going to be seeing in headlines. Be sure to pick up a copy of their early work!” Hodsdon said.

The deadline for the spring issue of Centripetal is March 15, though a specific release date has not yet been set. Also, the next open mic will be announced via the Poets and Writers Facebook page.