PICTURE YOURSELF sitting on a blanket, a portable chair, or a one-of-a-kind clay bench. Above you are tall magnolia trees. Their shiny green leaves, white blossoms, and pods with red seeds add color to your afternoon. On hot days, their shade soothes you.
You spot squirrels chasing each other across branches, leaping from tree to tree.
You're sitting in an informal circle of individuals from diverse backgrounds. You feel welcome, accepted.
The first poet reads one of her long poems. The man sitting to her right reads two short poems by someone whose work he admires. The third attendee, an aficionado, passes. Thus it goes, around the circle, until we come to you. On each turn you may choose to read or pass. If you're feeling shy, you're welcome to listen for a few minutes--or a few months--until you feel comfortable reading. Even if you never read aloud to us, remember: poets need an audience. We value your presence as much as that of those who do read aloud. You will not be pressured to read.
Depending on participation, you'll usually have anywhere from 2 to 5 turns to read a total of 1 to 10 poems.
You observe how tranquil the setting is: no espresso machines, no cash registers. You understand why no microphone is needed.
Then it hits you: with no featured poet, no sign-up sheet, no fee, and nothing to buy, this is an unusual experience.
Please note: the nearest public restrooms are about 5 blocks north and 5 blocks south of Poetry Grove. Please plan accordingly.
Poetry Grove Poets. Join us! To find out when, click on the "Events" tab.
Photo by Candace Vanderhoff; used with permission.