A Taste of Verse: University of Windsor’s Publishing practicum serves up The Poet’s Cookbook
The University of Windsor's Publishing Practicum is back and better than ever. This time, serving up The Poet’s Cookbook, the inaugural publication of the independent publisher Conspiracy Press. The Press is headed by André Narbonne, the course instructor and author of the Giller Prize- longlisted book Lucien & Olivia. The Press’ focus is conspiring against mediocrity, and The Poet's Cookbook does just that. With anecdotes, memories, arguments, and recipes, it's the perfect recipe for joy.
The book is set to launch on Thursday, April 2nd, at 7 p.m., at Mackenzie Hall, 3277 Sandwich Street. The launch is free and open to the public and will feature readings by students as well as a screening of a student-made short film. The Poet’s Cookbook and Conspiracy Press merch will also be for sale at the event.
When asked how the students were assigned their authors, Narbonne explained that during the summer, he posted a list of recipes for students to choose from and to cook. On the first day of classes, he revealed that the recipes they selected were by the authors they were going to edit.
Much like a potluck, this book brings together authors across Canada and the United States.
The book includes a gut-wrenching last recipe by National Book award winner and former University of Windsor professor, Joyce Carol Oates. The book also features recipes from the Head chef of the Montreal Canadiens and a grilled cheese recipe by award winning journalist and Windsor’s inaugural poet laureate Marty Gervais. The Poet’s Cookbook eloquently mixes comedy, grief, and political drama with illustrations by John Fraser sprinkled throughout it.
Of the practicum experience, Narbonne spoke of the communal aspect of the process; the students, writers, and illustrator all had a hand in the making of the book. He carries on the legacy of the program and notes its importance.
Ryan McLaughlin, an alumnus of the program commented “True to its name, the practicum offered one of the most grounded and functional educational experiences of my undergrad at UWin.” He said that the program offered the opportunity to “work with the materiality of it in ways not available in any other class.” Citing an appreciation for the work that goes into making a manuscript.
McLaughlin noted that “Sometimes you have to get into the weeds to really appreciate the substance of your study.” The program ran for 22 years by Black Moss Press’ Marty Gervais. The program now finds a new life through author and professor Narbonne’s Press, who explained that the program was like no other in Canada and offers students valuable hands- on experiences.
An exclusive quote by Collette Broeders along with a recipe titled Gertrude’s Fried Potatoes.
“I recently opened an old book that was awarded to my granny for achieving the highest mark in her Latin class. As I leafed through its pages, there were smells and reminders of her.”
The recipe is written as follows:
Ingredients
1 tbsp bacon fat
3 peeled potatoes, medium sliced
1 chopped onion
Salt and pepper to taste
Heat up bacon fat until it is melted in an old cast-iron frying pan
Add the onions, and cook on low heat until translucent (about 3 to 5 minutes)
Add the sliced potatoes and cook on medium heat until golden brown (about 15 to 20 minutes)
Garnish with salt and pepper as desired.
Conspiracy Press’s inaugural book launch is a great opportunity for students interested in taking the Editing and Publishing practicum course to gain insight into the course. As well as meeting course instructor Professor Narbonne and current students.