Literary Society

20 May 2016

“So do our minutes, hasten to their end.”

On Friday 20 May, in our final term at Stowe, the Literary Society leavers gathered for the last event of the year. The evening began with the traditional Literary Society photo on the North Front, then we were welcomed into the Music Room where Stoics and teachers enjoyed delicious food and untamed laughter. Entertainment from a select few only added to the spirited atmosphere of the night.

Initially we were serenaded by Isaac Ajala’s (Upper Sixth, Walpole) cover of ‘Broken Strings’, reminding us how poetry can be found beyond the pages of a book. We were also treated to a reading from Mr Palmer of ‘Love after Love’ by Derek Walcott, inspiring us to consider the value of friendship.

Shortly after the main course Charles Johnson (Upper Sixth, Bruce) performed an emotive and perceptive version of Edgar’s soliloquy from ‘King Lear’; the silence of the Music Room throughout was testament to the quality of the act as well as Shakespeare’s writing.
Towards the end of the night, Alex Curtis (Upper Sixth, West) and I reminded our fellow Literary Society members of the year that has passed. From the visit of the performance poet Kirsten Luckins, to receiving the poet laureate Carol Ann Duffy in December, and the more recent ‘Bill’s Birthday Bash’, the Literary Society has succeeded in supplying enlightening entertainment. Additionally, the Society has taken trips to see Oxford Playhouse’s more than alternative portrayal of ‘The Tempest’ and the stunning psychological production of ‘Doctor Faustus’ at the Swan Theatre. After reflecting on our memories, we were able to thank the English Department for their commitment and dedication. Most especially, the evening acted as an opportunity to thank the Head of English, Mr Goldsmith, who is leaving at the end of the term, for all that he has done for us. For his perseverance and inspirational passion for literature we gave him a copy of ‘Tequila Mockingbird’ - a less conventional book for his bookcase.

The evening was rounded off with a reflection from Mr Goldsmith. He reminded us how English is an especially important subject, the self-awareness gained from exploring literature being transferable to our lives beyond school. Then, in a reading of the poem, ‘Old Masters’, he talked of the legacy that all teachers leave that will live on through us; the skills and passion we have inherited over the past two years being invaluable. Although it was the final dinner for both the Head of English and the Upper Sixth leavers, the evening remained enjoyable and heart-warming; a time at Stowe that will surely be a lasting memory for us all.

Izzy Smith (Upper Sixth, Nugent)