Reflections

Two of communication lecturer Carolyn Rickett's poems have been published in the first annual creative writing anthology from the University of Sydney.

Rickett, who is completing doctorial studies at the university, performed readings of the poems at the launch of the journal, Phoenix, late in 2006. "It's nice to have poetry published, but the real joy is in the process of working with other writers," she says.

Dr David Brooks, the director of the creative writing program, spoke at the launch. "The University of Sydney is attracting some of the best new writers in the country, and this journal is more than just a showcase for the program itself," he says. "These writers are mature. Their voices, fresh as they are, are also strong and confident."

Rickett is collaborating with the editor of Phoenix, Judith Beveridge, one of Australia's leading poets, on a study of poetry and healing. The two will conduct their study at Sydney Adventist Hospital later this year. One of their objectives is to produce an anthology of poetry where writers experiencing illness have used poetry as a means of therapeutic intervention.

Avondale College will draw on Rickett's experience by offering creative writing as a subject from 2009.

URSULA BORGAS