The week in poetry: Tuesday was my so-called top billing at the Open House pub. I had a great time, but not exactly in the way I'd expected. Beforehand, one of my 'friends' had this to say: "So lets see - you won't know anyone, and they'll all be eighteen, pretty, and precociously talented. Have fun." The reality was less of a challenge. Only four of the students got up the nerve to read, with me in the middle too embarassed by their brevity to read more than three poems. Hence, the entire event only lasted about half an hour, and I didn't feel able to even mention money. However, since it was over so quickly there was lots of time afterwards to chat to the students and their teachers (one of whom was an old classmate of mine). It was a novel experience for me to feel in a position of, if not authority, then at least relative maturity. And it was gratifying that students who'd been like frightened rabbits on stage still felt able to approach me (haha, not that I'm remotely intimidating) and say nice things about my poems, and seek advice. Of course, I still fully expect them to outstrip me in talent, productivity, confidence and success before too long... The teachers want to make it a regular event and encourage the wallflowers to bring out those poems hidden in their back pockets. I hope I'll stay involved too.
Last night was my third evening class, which saw the first public outing of the much-mentioned 'horse cock poem'. We didn't actually have time for feedback during class, and I fear I may have been upstaged by the tale of turning into a fish while having a shit... But anyway, those of you who have shown interest in the poem's development may be pleased to know that you can now read it here.
True Love and High Adventure
