The power of poetry meets scientific research, as the University of Warwick announces the unveiling of a new Poetry Trail to coincide with World Poetry Day (21 March).
The trail, which will become a lasting legacy of the University's 60th anniversary celebrations, features fourteen poems by award-winning poet and musician Sujatha Menon. Each of the poems was inspired by (largely) female researchers and technicians across the School of Life Sciences. Menon spent a year-long residency as the department's first poet-in-residence, commissioned by Professor Emeritus Kevin Moffat, a former Director of Outreach. It was during this time she wrote her new collection, Microscopia published by Pindrop Press.
The poems will be permanently displayed as a trail through the University's ancient bluebell woods and paths near Gibbet Hill, transforming a walk in nature into a celebration of literature, biology, and wellbeing. Visitors can explore the University's scientific research in a new and creative way, celebrating the power of poetry to inspire, connect, and reflect diverse perspectives.
Professor Miriam Gifford, Head of School from the School of Life Sciences, comments, "Bringing these poems to life has been a process fuelled by imagination, bringing all kinds of creative ideas into both our labs and our conversations. The trail is a unique opportunity for the Warwick community to engage with scientific research through the voices, stories, and discoveries of female academics, technicians, and researchers.
"We've loved the opportunity to bring science and art closer together on campus - the collaboration has opened our eyes to the powerful ways the two interlink."
Each poem reflects the voices, stories, and discoveries of female researchers and technicians, at the University. Visitors can expect thought-provoking themes, from "skinning spells" to "talking in the rhizosphere" and "hydrosapien neuropathies", offering a poetic reflection on science and the human experience.
Poet in Residence, Sujatha Menon, adds "I've always been fascinated by science - it's in my blood. I come from a family of doctors, I'm trained in complementary medicine, and my work as a health practitioner has deepened my interest in science. Collaborating with the University of Warwick has been a wonderful way to explore how science and poetry can speak to each other.
"As Poet in Residence since 2022, I've been passionate about finding new ways to engage people with research - to look at it differently, through metaphor, emotion, and storytelling. It felt especially meaningful to create Microscopia to commemorate Warwick's 60th anniversary year - a point in time to celebrate the University's visionary spirit, its commitment to igniting curiosity and embracing creativity. Warwick is more than an institution - it's a place for discovery, connection and inspiration. I hope many people will come and enjoy the walk of words on campus."
The Poetry Trail's legacy highlights the University's commitment to creativity and innovation and will help to open up new ways of understanding science. The new trail will be accessible to the public and free to experience.
