The first stanza: The rise of the Poetry Princes

Poetry Princes is a newly formed, student-led organization at Heidelberg, offering a creative haven where students can come together to celebrate the power of poetry.

The group is led by Jasper Chapman, a freshman Environmental & Watershed Science major, who first dreamed up the idea in high school and realized the full potential of his vision after being inspired by a British literature course on campus. Jasper shares, “Seeing and reading William Blake’s poetry anthology changed my vision for what poetry can do for others and myself.”

At its core, Poetry Princes aims to teach students about poetry and writing styles. For Jasper, however, the true purpose of the group is to foster a supportive community that encourages and empowers students in their poetic pursuits.

Poetry Princes meet every Friday at 6:30 p.m. in Pfleiderer 101 to share poems and inspiration for future pieces. Jasper delivers an educational presentation during meetings, followed by a group activity where students have the chance to write together and provide feedback.

The group hosts public events, including a monthly open mic night, with February’s event titled “Rhyming With Love.” The event featured guest writers and gave attendees the chance to write heartfelt poems to loved ones as a Valentine’s Day gift.

Jasper notes that for those hesitant to share their poetry, “It can never hurt to try something new because you might just discover something new about yourself.” They add, “Poetry can be for anything you want it to be, it doesn’t have to have rhyme or reason.”

As Poetry Princes grows, the group emphasizes that poetry is more than just an art form – it is a powerful means of communication. Through poetry, people can share their experiences, dreams, struggles, and visions.

Whether you are new to writing or an experienced poet, Poetry Princes invites everyone to embrace the transformative power of poetry.

– by Kami Stanfield ‘25