Poets, both pro and amateur, came together in the Writing Center in D Vickers Hall for a toga-themed poetry slam on Monday, Feb. 21 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. A poetry slam is an event where a group of people get together to read poetry of their own design, while putting it in a way that is meaningful and understanding.

The Writing Center began hosting themes last semester, starting with Harry Potter, and decided to keep the idea going for the spring with the theme of Greek gods. They also put together the toga theme for the poetry event.

“This idea just sort of came to us,” said Greg Fischer, a creative writing graduate student. “Then, we decided to do the toga theme to add to the fun of a poetry reading and to see how many people we could get to come out in togas.”

Although the event was small, everyone present enjoyed themselves.

“I have read about poetry slams before,” said Amy Edwards, a sophomore majoring in sociology. “I came out because I wanted to know more about them and experience them first hand.”

The poetry reading started when Fischer welcomed everyone into the Writing Center and read his poem “Not Another Love Poem.”

Everyone was given the opportunity to express themselves by reading their work no matter if it was about love, hate, comedy or their classes.

“I had fun because it was silly,” said sophomore English major Ashley Williams. “No one should be afraid to do it. It’s college, you’re supposed to do this kind of stuff and have fun.”

The poetry slam ended with the reading of a poem called “Exquisite Corpse.” This poem was created by the audience who each created their own line of the poem without knowing what everyone else wrote.

Along with the poetry readings, the Writing Center also provided refreshments for guests who came to read and support their friends.

For more information on the events that will be held by the Writing Center or for help with essays or other writings, contact the Writing Center at 985-549-2076.