The poetry club will be hosting its annual poetry night tonight from 6 to 9 p.m. This year’s theme is “Written in the Stars.” Although only students are performing, anyone is welcome to enjoy a night of poetry free of charge in the cafeteria.

“Guests should expect to hear a wide variety of original poetry that ranges from humorous to morose in a relaxed, cafe-like atmosphere,” English teacher and poetry club sponsor Amber Counts said.

The date of the event was chosen to coincide with National Poetry Month and the theme of the night was selected by poetry club members.

“The poets were given full creative license as long as the poems were deemed school-appropriate for a high school audience and under five minutes in performance length,” Counts said.

The poetry performance provides students with a venue in which to share their unique voices and experiences.

“Though it can be scary to speak in front of a group of people, those who do so always report feeling empowered and more confident afterwards,” Counts said.

Poetry night offers the opportunity to hear students’ various ideas, writing styles and individual talents.

“It’s just the way I express myself,” senior Freda Ruiz said. “Doing it in writing is easier than saying how you feel. I’m hoping that it will feel good to share my work and that I won’t get really nervous. I hope I’ll feel a sense of happiness.”

Most of the clubs focus this year has been on raising awareness of both the club and poetry event. The poems performed tonight will be published in the literary magazine, The Pomegranate.

“Poetry is the freedom to let your soul sing,” senior Grace Mappes said. “There’s no distinct good or bad…there’s what calls out to you and what doesn’t and it’s so subjective. It makes me feel free with my voice.”