Night and Shadows: Local Poetry

National Poetry Month is being celebrated throughout Waltham and surrounding towns. This first week has inundated the area with torrents of words, from storms of despair to sprinkles of hope. Throughout the month I will be covering events observed locally. As a bonus, a free book of poetry can be found to encourage reading and appreciation of local writers. Congratulations John, who found the first book en route to iPhone shopping!

Poet Joan Houlihan at Newtonville Books

"I promise we didn't plan this," joked poet Joan Houlihan, referring to her and fellow presenter Martha Collins' choice of black attire at their Tuesday evening poetry reading at Newtonville Books. "The weather is perfect for our subject matter," she added. The cold gloomy rain dripping in the darkness matched the grief filled mood of her poems in "Shadow-feast." The title comes from the name for the ceremonial meal offered to beloved dead in traditional Japanese culture. Houlihan's book offers a taste of both bitter and sweet, expressing emotions experienced while enduring terminal illness. Although the words brought tears to listener's eyes, the reading remained light and cheerful, as bright smiles and warm conversation was shared.

Poet Martha Collins at Newtonville Books

Martha Collins read samples from her collection of poems she wrote over the course of twelve years. "Night Unto Night" represents moments and months in time, providing the ability to contrast the past to the present in a mindful way. Stepping back into the shadowy night after an evening illuminated by the glow of poetry illustrated the real way in which words can change an atmosphere.

For more poetry by and events featuring local authors, check here on the Waltham Patch each day as we celebrate National Poetry Month.