National Poetry Month
April 8 reading by Writer-in-Residence Francisco

Ed Francisco, the College’s writer-in-residence, will read from the works of Persian poets Rumi and Hafez on Wednesday, April 8.

The presentation is part of the series of activities related to the school’s Common Academic Experience, which this year revolves around class readings and discussion of the graphic-style novel “Persepolis.” The book is based on the childhood of its author, Marjane Satrapi, an Iranian woman who lived through the Islamic Revolution of the late seventies.

The poetry reading is designed to share the teachings of the two 13th century poets.

“Rumi and Hafez appeal to us as Westerners because of their focus on spirituality,” said Francisco. “It’s especially important to understand their teachings in regard to peaceful Sufi mysticism. We can’t focus only on the militant aspects of Islam.”

The poetry is not the usual short verse most familiar to modern readers. One of Rumi’s most famous works, for example, is a six-volume poem. And the name “Hafez” is the title that was given to those who had memorized the Koran. (Memorizing tomes was not an uncommon feat in past times, according to Francisco.) 

April is National Poetry Month. Francisco, author of several books of poetry, praises the medium for its ability to “connect us with the commonality of human experience.”

The reading is free and open to the public. It begins at 11:50 a.m. in the Goins Building Auditorium. For additional information, contact Carol Luther at 694-6439.