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Senior shares her poetry on the Connecticut Poetry Circuit

Though art and religion are frequently at odds, Caitlin Scott ´10 is fascinated by their relationship - so fascinated, in fact, she has combined her interests to write poetry inspired by religious themes and is now sharing her work with others. Scott, a religious studies and history double major, is traveling and giving poetry readings throughout the state as a part of the Connecticut Poetry Circuit, a selective society that only chooses five college students each year to join. The circuit is also affiliated with the National Federation of Poetry Societies (NFSPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to the promotion and enjoyment of poetry. Scott found enjoyment in poetry at an early age, and wanted to pursue her passion at Connecticut College. As a freshman, she enrolled in an introductory poetry course with English Professor Charles Hartman, poet in residence and co-director of the creative writing program. This course, as well as additional coursework with Hartman, enabled her to research how religious studies and poetic talent unite. "Religion inspired me to write about the mystical significance of even the most mundane aspects of life," Scott said. Hartman also sees the benefit of Scott merging religion and poetry. Scott´s interest in religion allows her to be sensitive to the ways a poem´s speaker inhabits an ethical character and space, Hartman said. "She has an excellent ear, both for the detailed texture of the sounds of the language, and for the gestures of voice that a line or a poem can enact," he added. As Scott finishes her last semester of college, enjoying her final college poetry courses, she reflects on her time at the College. "One of the best things about Connecticut College is that you can take classes in any department you´d like, even outside of your major," Scott said. "I´ve had the chance to improve upon my craft, and I plan to continue writing throughout my life - no matter what career I end up pursuing." By Claire Gould ´10



March 29, 2010