English Prof Releases Third Book of Poetry, "Nightstand"

Westminster College English Professor David Swerdlow. Image by Sydney Roach.

NEW WILMINGTON, Pa.— Dr. David Swerdlow, an award-winning poet and professor of English at Westminster College, has recently published his third book of poetry, titled "Nightstand," through Broadstone Books. The collection delves into the struggle of safeguarding family during violent times, addressing themes of mass shootings, political brutality, terrorism, and genocide.

Swerdlow expresses the dual nature of his poems, stating, "While ‘Nightstand’ includes poems that contend with mass shootings, political brutality, terrorism, genocide, and a growing list of other horrors that threaten us more and more directly every day, I believe these poems also partake in love, in the spirit of dignity that can be our way forward."

The title poem, "Nightstand," portrays the meaningful items on Swerdlow's bedside table, serving as symbols of the comfort and solace he seeks in unsettling times. Explaining the significance of these poems, Swerdlow shares, "In these dark times, these nights, I find it necessary to take a stand, no matter how tenuous or vulnerable or seemingly insignificant that stand may be. Each poem is a place for me to gather courage."

One of the collection's highlights, "As a Citizen," is a poignant portrayal of former President Barack Obama's post-presidential years, inspired by the admiration Swerdlow holds for him. "He's a hero of mine for many reasons," Swerdlow said. "With these poems, I hope to improve the world in whatever small way I can by being truthful and loving, by owning my mistakes, by singing in the dark."

The book cover features an evocative multimedia image, titled "Off the Road," created by the late Peggy Cox, a former art professor at Westminster College. Swerdlow fondly remembers their friendship, stating, "Every day, I think of Peggy as I look at her work hanging on the walls of my home. Now, I see her work on the cover of my book. I see her handwriting, and it feels good and right. She’s still helping me to see."

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