Poetry on Patriots Day

The largest literary event in the world is ongoing in Waltham and neighboring towns. National Poetry Month is a celebration for everyone, of al ages and abilities. Local poets, book shoppes, and libraries are rejoicing with a variety of poetry slams, readings, and parties. I am continuing coverage of regional events, and invite you to check them out for yourself.

Local publisher Indie Woods is bringing poetry to Waltham in honour of National Poetry Month. All-age poetry slams are offered throughout April on Saturdays at the Waltham Public Library. This series is open to everyone. Attendees may bring their own poetry to share, step in to hear local poets, or help clap out beats with interactive child-safe tools. Free samples of fresh words will be awarded to all.

On Saturday April 14, children gathered for the Indie Woods Poetry Slam at the WalthamPublic Library. They used word blocks to build physical poetry. Colourful towers became rhymes. The children also listened to readings of the library's cheerfully poetic board boolks, "Llama Llama Hoppity Hop," and "Llama Llama Wakey-Wake." The kids experienced words in a new, concrete way.

Three year old Nikhil built a poem by playing with colour patterns. (Photo by Jessica Lucci)

On Saturday afternoon, Poetry on Demand was procured at Belmont Books. Poets Whitney Scharer and Allison Adair were on hand for personalized poem requests. Children were as enthralled by the "old fashioned" typewriters used as they were by the prospect of their ideas becoming instant poetry!

Luke listens to typewriters clacking as poets compose poems on the theme of his choosing. (Photo by Jessica Lucci)

Poetic celebration continues locally in the following days and weeks.

Gallery 55 on 55 S. Main Street in Natick is hosting their 3rd Thursday Poetry on April 19 from 7-9PM. Local poet Heather Corbally Bryant will share excerpts from her chapbook, "Thunderstorm."

Indie Woods Poetry Slam returns on Saturday, April 21 from 11:30-1 in Study Room 4 at the Waltham Public Library. Children of all ages and adults will use magnets and colours to mix their own poetry blends. Come by for an immersive poetry break, or stay for the entire session. Like poetry, it's all up to you!

Belmont Books is encouraging poets to attend Open Mic Poetry on the 24th from 6:30-9. What a tremendous opportunity to hear or be heard!

On Wednesday evening the 25th at 7PM, Poets Dan Chiasson and Robin MacArthur will be sharing their poetry at Wellesley Books.

A Night of Poetry is offered on Thursday the 26th at Belmont Books at 7PM. Poets Krysten Hill, Maggie Dietz, and Sandra Lim will read their poems, and autographed copies of their books will be available.

https://www.indiewoods.org

Indie Woods Poetry Slam provides a grande finale on Saturday, April 28, from 11:30-1 in Study Room 4 at the Waltham Public Library. Musical instruments will be provided as all ages and abilities can explore tone and rhythm in poetry.

Locally written poetry books "Person Numbers," and award-winning "Code Words," are available this month at discounted prices to encourage the reading of poetry. The newest book of local poetry, "Freedom For Me," will also be revealed in honour of National Poetry Month.