Established in Canada in April 1998 by the League of Canadian Poets (LCP), National Poetry Month (NPM) brings together schools, publishers, booksellers, literary organizations, libraries, and poets from across the country to celebrate poetry and its vital place in Canada’s culture. The year 2014 marks the 16th anniversary of NPM in Canada.
Regina Mayor Michael Fougere challenges his fellow mayors across Canada to have a local poet read a poem at the opening of their Council meetings in March or April. The challenge is a celebration of UNESCO’s World Poetry Day (March 21) and National Poetry Month in April. The purpose is to celebrate poetry, writing, small presses and the contribution of poets and all writers to the cultural life in our communities. It also celebrates libraries, and the work of so many mayors and municipalities to promote the Arts, culture, and literacy and reading. Great initiative, I believe.
Last week, LCP also announced the shortlist for its 2014 Memorial Awards, and the Spoken Word Award. The works and authors shortlisted are:
There will be some events where you can enjoy some poetry as well. I would recommend the following:
Poetry City
Presented by the Toronto Public Library
Thursday, Apr 10 — 6:00 to 8:15pm
Beaches Branch – Program Room
Five of Canada’s finest poets, Dennis Lee, Ronna Bloom, Ken Babstock, Karen Solie and Souvankham Thammavongsa invite you to celebrate National Poetry Month at the Beaches library.
HIJ Reading Series #4
Featuring Ian Williams and Souvankham Thammavongsa
With special guests Songs for Runaway Girls
Sunday April 27 — 2:00 to 5:00 pm
Readings will include works by Williams and Thammavongsa, a great musical set, an author Q&A. As well, the members of Songs for Runaway Girls are going to prepare traditional sweet Argentine treats for us called Alfajores and Mate too. And as if that is not enough, there will be more pie and refreshments! You are also welcome to bring adult beverages of your choice. This sounds like absolute merriment!
If you’re a poetry fan and are able to attend these events, I suggest you do. It’s not only a chance to hear some new works, but also to support local poets. And if you’re curious for more poetry, I also suggest you take a tour of my budding poetry corner, where I share works from the greats and up-and-coming poets as well. It may be National Poetry Month but the joy of poetry is an everyday occurrence.
