A Typical Newsletter (abridged)
May 11 A reading by George Szirtes. A welcome return visit by this leading poet, who was a member of TPS in its formative years. George was born in Budapest in 1948 and came to England as a refugee in 1956. His impressive achievements include numerous fellowships and awards, such as the prestigious T S Eliot prize, 2005. He has published many volumes of poetry. His latest book is The Burning of the Books and Other Poems, (Bloodaxe Books,2009). In 1982, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature. Since he returned to Budapest for the first time in 1984, he has worked extensively as a translator of poems, novels, plays and essays, and as an editor of anthologies. We anticipate a fascinating wide-ranging evening, with opportunities for discussion.
May 18. Poetry Plus Pizza [optional]. A last opportunity before our poetry year ends to join other members to discuss work in progress with an optional visit afterwards to the famed restaurant quarter in Hitchin. Meet at Eric Moore's Bookshop in Bridge Street for 7.30. For further information contact Dick Hancock.
May 25. Change of programme. The new topic, Locality , will be led by Frank Batt, starting with examples from his own publication (Bedfordshire Verse), then mentioning work by local writers eg Robert Bloomfield (Shefford) or John Bunyan (Elstow). Members are invited to bring further examples by themselves or established writers which celebrate the appeal of the "local", whether close to home or further afield.
Dates for your Diary
June 8. .A workshop led by Frances Wilson. Don't miss the chance to join this friendly workshop whether you are just starting to write or seek to improve. Frances asserts "Everyone can write a poem..." Come and test the theory. Details later.
June 22. "FOUR POEMS".Rik, Jean, Barry and Susan Ch have each selected a poem to read and discuss by a writer they admire. The choices will span several decades. You will be able to bring other examples penned by these 4 chosen poets, providing contrast. Details soon.
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