A mixed martial arts fighter steps into a ring, ready to defeat any challenges he may face. In this octagon-shaped ring, a fighter seeks to prove himself.
In Michael Sweeney’s latest book, “Octagon Commonweal,” he uses the motif of an octagon fighting arena to describe life as a “proving ground” for humans. Sweeney spoke about his current release on Thursday, April 23, detailing the writing process behind his 100-page long poem that took him nearly five years to craft.
“After about the 50th line, I committed myself to making it long,” said Sweeney.
The poem focuses on the metaphor of the octagon, which illustrates the idea of life as humanity’s testing ground in which what one fights for in life affects the welfare of the community. Sweeney, who practiced martial arts for over 20 years, explained how the release of aggression induces peace, which is another theme seen in his poem.
Sweeney also shared other poems he wrote, including one that was written for his friend, Bill Russell, for his birthday. This poem contained humorous language and insight into their friendship. Sweeney also included a poem named “Self-Portrait at 60,” which he wrote for his own birthday. In order to honor the late poet Tony Sanders, Sweeney read two of Sanders’ poems entitled “Recreational” and “Transit Authority.”
Sophomores Colleen Sullivan and Maya Krysicki enjoyed having Sweeney as a professor last year, so they were excited to find out that he would be giving this presentation.
Krysicki feels that the event “expands upon not only knowing your professor as a professor but as a person.” She went on to explain how poetry is a good way of expressing yourself. Sullivan agreed that poetry allows for creativity.
This event was part of the Inspired Writer Series, which brought writers to the Fairfield area to speak about their work. Sweeney’s event celebrated the vitality of poetry in our culture, and by sharing his work, he hoped he could inspire others to be more creative.
The event attracted about 30 people, which mostly included colleagues and students of Sweeney.
Assistant Professor of English Carol Ann Davis introduced Michael Sweeney at the event. “I like the ambition of a book length poem,” said Davis, noting that she was excited to hear him speak on his latest work.
After Sweeney read various poems, he answered a few questions then signed books for the audience. “I’m feeling another long one coming,” said Sweeney about his poems.
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