How Wright College Celebrates Black History Month Through Poetry: Great Books Student Society

By: Jenin Hattab

Leading into the math emporium, holds a large glass room, S-102, where 11 open minded, welcoming students and professors sat in a large round table discussing poetry onTuesday February 29.The Great Books Student Society held an event celebrating poet Claude Mckay for Black History Month. 

Gretta Komperda, the president, is very proud of her position.She does not shy away from being devil's advocate to entice others or drawing shy students out of their comfort zone and into the conversation. Komperda reported the club's proud moments are, “publishing of the Great Books Student Symposium, it shows the club's hard work and dedication to highlighting strong student essayists” 

At Tuesday’s event, everyone read their selected poem out loud. Each poem was read twice for emphasis and understanding because poetry is very complex. Additionally, two different people read the poem, since people with different attitudes interpret it uniquely. After the reading, there was a long silence, not awkward or empty, but filled with everyone’s inner thoughts and self-interpretations. 

Eleanor Reft read out loud a play called, A Raisin In The Sun by Lorraine Hansberry. 

(Photo Credits: Jenin Hattab)

“Though renowned authors like Shakespeare or other literary greats seem inaccessible and difficult to understand, together we are able to get a fuller understanding of the transcendent nature of their works!” Komperda reassured. She also encouraged that everyone is welcome to attend their club’s meetings. 

Robin Lopez, a second semester student, recommended “After the Winter '' and heard groans from some students, arguing that it's a romance poem. Romance seems to be an unpopular category with a few club members. They would instead prefer to stick with poems that have more human experiences. Despite their opposing view they read “After the Winter” and understood the message hidden within the lines. 

The last poem they analyzed was, "Theme for English B”  by Langston Huges, chosen by Mike Peterson, an English professor and former advisor.  He was heavily facilitating and asking open ended questions to create thought provoking conversation. Jose Moctezuma, an assistant English professor and  advisor, provided insightful opinions on the poems. 

The Great Books Student Society holds weekly meetings on Tuesdays at 11am in room L-323 where everyone comes with a poem to discuss with everyone. They maintain an accepting, inclusive environment, welcoming everybody’s thoughts and opinions, while simultaneously respecting each other. 

Save the date, because on Wednesday March 13th located in room S-102 the Great Books Student Society celebrates Women's History Month. They will be reading a short story by Virigina Woolf and plan to have a very educating, thoughtful discussion. Proceeding this event, who knows, but each month they host an event to celebrate diversity. 

The Great Books Student Society new event celebrating Women's History Month.