SPRINGFIELD, Vt. – On Saturday, April 25, at 11 a.m., the public is invited to “Deep in Thought: Readings from Within” at the Springfield Town Library.
Anna Newman, a volunteer at Southern State Correctional Facility (SSCF), will read from “Deep in Thought,” a recently compiled book featuring SSCF poet/artist reflections on inner life, life within the carceral system, and the life longed for outside of incarceration.
Newman, who facilitates a weekly poetry group at SSCF, has collaborated with John Vincent, of A Revolutionary Press in New Haven, Vt., to assist prisoners in letterpress production of their poetry and art. The end papers for “Deep in Thought” are made using inmate uniform and bedding materials. The covers, featuring linocuts and hand-set type, are created from original drawings by incarcerated artists which are then transferred to linoleum for carving by volunteers at A Revolutionary Press. Equipment is brought into the corrections facility for hands-on papermaking and letterpress printing experiences.
The compilation of “Deep in Thought” marks the second holiday season where Tuesday afternoon poetry group members have created a tangible item that highlights their talents and connects them through gift-giving with friends, family, and community.
To sign up for a reminder, visit www.springfieldtownlibrary.org/calendar.