Poetry Readings and Poetry Prizes

I talk about two poetry readings, one past and one present, and a prestigious poetry prize.

Mighty Speak Up Event

The Speak Up event in Little Lane bookshop (link) in Waterford was a pure delight. Everyone who booked came to the event, and there was standing room only at the back.

Photo Description: This pic shows me reading my piece, wearing my comfortable pink MC shirt.

A select audience of fifteen people enjoyed poetry from many contributors, music from Conor Doyle, and their first ever taste of AI, which was not as scary as they thought. I co MCed with Deborah Somers and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming.

Japanese Gardens Update

I promise this is the very last time I'll be telling you that you can register for the Japanese Gardens Gathering, which is this Saturday, 14 June. But I hope to be able to boast about it next week.

A tonne of people have registered, so thanks very much. Some have registered to speak about their writers' groups and some have registered to read in the open mic, so we're looking forward to hearing a wealth of talent. It's all happening from 2.30 onwards on Saturday, and it's free.

Waterford Poetry Prize

Margaret Organ, newsletter subscriber and arts officer with the Waterford City and County Council's Arts Officer, asked me to announce that the Waterford Poetry Prize is now open for entries.

You submit a poem of 40 lines or less via the submission portal, and it must be submitted by 15 August. The winners of this prestigious prize will then be announced on 26 October, during Waterford Writers' Weekend.

And finally… RIP Frederick Forsyth, the English novelist and journalist, who has died at the age of 86. He wrote thrillers that squillions of people enjoyed, including Day of the Jackal and The Odessa Files. A fine legacy to leave on this earth.