Phoenix Club

One of the youngest of the College Clubs, the Phoenix Club was inaugurated early in the First Term, to take the place of the defunct Literary Society. The activities of the Club, however, have not been by any means confined to literary ends; and through various channels, attempts have been made to stimulate interest in music and the formative arts.

During the year seven papers were read by students, the opening one being "Why Modern?" by Mr. R. G. Tosswill, which was later answered by Mr. Goring-Johnston, "Why Not Modern?' A paper by Mr. O'Reilly dealt with the fundamental relationships between Science and Art; Miss Emmanuel and Mr. Hutchings addressed meetings on Edna Vincent Millay and T. S. Eliot respectively; Miss Hefford's subject was "Plays and Propaganda," and Mr. Wells gave a brief survey of Spanish Literature.

Outside speakers included Professor Shelley, Director of Broadcasting (Patron of the Club), Professor G. A. Gordon (Vice-Patron), Professor G. W. von Zedlitz, and Dr. J. C. Beaglehole. The programme for the year included also a visit to the Museum to inspect the collection of Chinese Art; here members of the Club were fortunate enough to hear an address from the Curator of the Collection, Captain Humphreys Davis, who not only introduced his audience to many priceless gems of the collector, but also furnished them with some interesting sidelights on Chinese philosophy.

Under the auspices of the Phoenix Club, musical recitals have been held twice weekly in the Library, under the direction of Drs. Keys and Beaglehole; these have lately been extended to alternate Saturday mornings for the convenience of part-time students.

So much for a review of past activities; it is to be hoped that the Phoenix Club has come to fulfil an essential part of College life.