pass on a poem events
'A mind that is lively and enquiring, compasssionate, curious, angry, full of feeling, is a mind full of possible poetry. Poetry is a life-cherishing force. And it requires a vision - a faith, to use an old-fashioned term. Yes, indeed. For poems are not words, after all, but fires for the cold, ropes let down to the lost, something as necessary as bread in the pockets of the hungry.' Y
Mary Oliver
pass on a poem events provide an opportunity for anyone to submit a poem they would like to share and read aloud in public. They are also an opportunity for people to listen to poetry in a wide variety of styles. Events take place in different settings, such as cafes, bookshops, libraries, community halls and schools. They are advertised locally and on the website about a month before they take place. Numbers involved do not normally exceed 75, and can be much smaller. There are usually around 15 readers. No special training or facility in public speaking or recitation is required, and the atmosphere is always informal and relaxed. Readers take a few minutes to explain their choice, and are invited to concentrate on the personal reasons. An academic or literary background is not in any way a prerequisite, although the programme for each event will always include a good mix of poems, some of which will certainly repay any amount of further reading.
pass on a poem also offers readings performed by volunteer readers in public settings, such as homes and hospitals, where people have time on their hands and would enjoy listening to poetry, but do not have ready access to it, and therefore cannot make their own selections.
Find out more about our next reading, recent readings and see the event calendar.