Thanks, Glen.

from the pen of John Keats ...

“In Poetry I have a few Axioms,” wrote John Keats in 1818, in one of his famous letters.

“1st. I think Poetry should surprise by a fine excess and not by Singularity—it should strike the Reader as a wording of his own highest thoughts, and appear almost a Remembrance—

2nd. Its touches of Beauty should never be half way thereby making the reader breathless instead of content: the rise, the progress, the setting of imagery should like the Sun come natural to him—shine over him and set soberly although in magnificence leaving him in the Luxury of twilight—but it is easier to think what Poetry should be than to write it—and this leads me on to another axiom. That if Poetry comes not as naturally as the Leaves to a tree it had better not come at all.”

$50,000 Poetry Prize in Montreal - for a single poem!

This great news from http://arts.nationalpost.com/2011/03/24/50000-montreal-poetry-prize-announced/

The organizers of a new literary prize announced on Thursday they will award $50,000 to a single poem.

Full details at http://montrealprize.com/

Describing it as “the biggest poetry competition in history,” organizers of the Montreal Poetry Prize said the initiative “represents a major contribution to the global cultural scene.”

“The launch of such a large prize for poetry obviously marks an important moment for anyone interested in literature,” said Michael Harris, a poet and member of the prize’s editorial board, in a press release.

To be eligible for the prize, the poem must be written in an English dialect and be 40 lines or under. Andrew Motion, former poet laureate of the United Kingdom, will select the winner.

From the press release:

The $50,000 prize purse is a gift to the Montreal Prize from a donor who wishes to remain anonymous. “We were lucky to find someone generous and forward thinking enough to kick-start this project with a catalyst donation. And we are currently seeking a sponsor or patron for future years,” explains Peter Abramowicz, one of the Montreal Prize’s three founders.

There’s a catch; if you want your work to be considered for the $50,000 prize, you have to pay an entree fee. Each entry will cost you between $10 and $20, depending on whether you live in a “developing nation” or a “developed nation” and whether you enter early or late. Apparently, “your participation helps to make the Montreal Prize a reality!” For real?

As well, the 50 finalists will be featured in an anthology published by Véhicule Press. But wait! If your poem isn’t good enough to make the top 50, don’t fret. The next 100 “best” poems will be published in another anthology, to be released in e-book form by Véhicule Press.

The deadline to submit an “early” entry is April 22. The final date to enter is July 8. The winner will be announced in December.

Spring Fashions modeled by 'Rising Young Poets'

Young poets wearing new spring fashions - in Oprah! Sneer all you like, but Oprah's love of Poetry is nothing to sneeze at - the woman has amazing media power and maybe can raise the level of poetry awareness to a new and higher level. Her book club has proved to be more intelligent than expected, using the talents of critics like Francine Prose. Take a look - the Punk look was my favourite, although the one above is eye-catching (and probably arm of chair catching, etc).

More at http://www.oprah.com/style/Spring-Fashion-Modeled-by-Rising-Young-Poets

2011 Reason-Brisbane Poetry Prize

POETRY PRIZE
WELCOME 2011 GUIDELINES

The Reason-Brisbane Poetry Prize was established in 2004 as part of the Words in Winter Celebrations that are held, each August, in towns across Hepburn Shire in Central Victoria. In 2010, the competition, initially for Victorian residents only, was opened to all Australian residents.

The Prize has been generously sponsored by Joy Brisbane, a published poet and author who understands the difficulties poets face when trying to find outlets for their work. Joy’s aim is to encourage and nurture the talent of both new and established poets.

With a total prize pool of $2300 the Reason-Brisbane Poetry Prize continues to be one of the most lucrative poetry competitions in Australia. In 2011 the first prize will again be $1500, second prize is $500 and third prize is $300.

The judge for 2011 is Melbourne poet Petra White, whose first book of poetry, The Incoming Tide, was shortlisted in the Queensland Premier's Literary Awards. She was a 2008 Fellow of Hawthornden Castle International Retreat for Writers, and her second collection, The Simplified World, was published by John Leonard Press in 2010.


Previous Winners
2010: 1st place Kevin Gillam; 2nd place Barry O’Donohue; 3rd place Andrew Slattery.
2009: 1st place Charles D’Anastasi; 2nd place Jillian Pattinson; 3rd place Paul Mitchell
2008: 1st place Pauline Rough; 2nd place LK Holt; 3rd place Charles D’Anastasi
2007: 1st place Anne Gleeson; 2nd place Mary-Jane Wyllie; 3rd place Barbara Orlowska-Westwood
2006: 1st place Lynn Sunderland; 2nd place Helen Cerne; 3rd place Mary Manning
2005: 1st place Pat Patt; 2nd place Cate Kennedy; 3rd place Frances Brook
2004: 1st place Ross Gillett; 2nd place Toby Sime; 3rd place Charles D’Anastasi

Contact us
The Organiser of the Reason-Brisbane Poetry Prize is writer and cartoonist, Sheila Hollingworth: sheila.hollingworth@bigpond.com

Aussie words

The following are results from an OZ-words Competition where entrants were asked to take an Australian word, alter it by one letter only, and supply a witty definition.

Clearly, you need to be an Aussie to understand.

Billabonk: to make passionate love beside a waterhole
Bludgie: a partner who doesn't work, but is kept as a pet
Dodgeridoo: a fake indigenous artefact
Fair drinkum: good-quality Aussie wine
Flatypus: a cat that has been run over by a vehicle
Mateshit: all your flat mate's belongings, lying strewn around the floor
Shagman: an unemployed male, roaming the bush in search of sexual activity
Yabble: the unintelligible language of Australian freshwater crustaceans
Bushwanker: a pretentious drongo, who reckons he's above average when it comes to handling himself in the scrub
Crackie-daks: 'hipster' tracksuit pants.

And for the Kiwi's amongst us:
Shornbag: a particularly attractive naked sheep.

Poetry Sales Figures (English)

"In 1999 the Arts Council of England commissioned a report into the state of poetry. Rhyme And Reason, which ran to more than 180 pages, made for uncomfortable if predictable reading. Few people admitted ever to buying a poetry book and those who did said it was more likely to be by a dead poet than a live one. Contemporary poetry accounted for 3% of sales of verse, 90% of which were claimed by one publisher (Faber) and 67% by one poet, Ted Hughes. Pam Ayres was named as the nation’s fifth favourite extant poet, beloved by women and the over 45s."

Read it all at http://www.heraldscotland.com/arts-ents/book-features/poems-to-make-the-heart-sing-1.1091701

Edwin Morgan 1920-2010 Poem from the TLS

Letter to a French Novelist

Saporta:
O satrap!
O Sparta!
Oars tap.
O, a strap?
A pastor?
Pa Astor?
Ps! Aorta.
Taro sap.
Art soap?
A rat sop
to paras.
O. A. S. trap.
So apart!
– Pat. Rosa.

Edwin Morgan (1964)
There's more at http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/the_tls/article7165495.ece

You and a guest are warmly invited to join us on Thursday 24 March 2011 from 6pm to celebrate the opening of The Negativity Bin: a joint launch of works on paper by Ipswich artist Jodie Weller and local Woodend poet, B.R. Dionysius’s latest chapbook, The Negativity Bin.

The Negativity Bin will be launched by John Acutt, Head of English at Ipswich Grammar School and include a short poetry reading.
Books avaliable at http;//www.presspress.com.au

Poetry as a Metaphor for Life

"Wouldn't it be better to turn life into poetry rather than to make poetry from life? And cannot poetry have as its primary objective, rather than the creation of poems, the creation of poetic moments?" - Octavio Paz

Mexican poet Octavio Paz asks a very important question here: why do people work hard to distinguish between life and poetry? Paz's works deal with a new kind of metaphysics, one focused not so much on human potential and life force, but on the life forces that flow in and out of the world. Paz shows that the aim of poetry should not be to perpetuate a static artform, but to create new life and vivacity.



Read more at Suite101: Poets on Poetry http://www.suite101.com/content/poets-on-poetry-a355273#ixzz1GmBU1Obf

BIOGRAPHY of JOE MORELLO July 17, 1928—March 12, 2011

Joe Morello was born on July 17, 1928, in Springfield, Mass. Having impaired vision since birth, he devoted himself to indoor activities. At the age of six, his family’s encouragement led him to study violin. Three years later, he was featured with the Boston Symphony Orchestra as soloist in the Mendelsohn Violin Concerto. At the age of twelve, he made a second solo appearance with the orchestra. But upon meeting and hearing his idol, the great Jascha Heifetz, Joe felt he could never achieve “that sound”. So, at the age of fifteen, Joe changed the course of his musical endeavors and began to study drums.

Joe’s first drum teacher, Joe Sefcik, was a pit drummer for all the shows in the Springfield area. He was an excellent teacher and gave Joe much encouragement. Joe began sitting in with any group that would allow it. When he was not sitting in, he and his friends, including Teddy Cohen, Chuck Andrus, Hal Sera, Phil Woods and Sal Salvador, would get together and jam in any place they could find. Joe would play any job he was called for. As a result, his musical experiences ranged from rudimental military playing to weddings and social occasions. Eventually, Mr. Sefcik decided it was time for Joe to move on. He recommended a teacher in Boston, the great George Lawrence Stone.

Mr. Stone did many things for Joe. He gave Joe most of the tools for developing technique. He taught Joe to read. But most important of all, he made Joe realize his future was in jazz, not “legitimate” percussion, as Joe had hoped. Through his studies with Mr. Stone, Joe became known as the best drummer in Springfield, and rudimental champion of New England.

Joe’s playing activity increased, and he soon found himself on the road with several groups. First, there was Hank Garland and the Grand Old Opry, and then Whitey Bernard. After much consideration, Joe left Whitey Bernard to go to New York City.

A difficult year followed, but with Joe’s determination and the help of friends like Sal Salvador, Joe began to be noticed. Soon he found himself playing with an impressive cast of musicians that included Gil Melle, Johnny Smith, Tal Farlow, Jimmy Raney, Stan Kenton and Marian McPartland. After leaving Marian McPartland’s trio, he turned down offers from the Benny Goodman band and the Tommy Dorsey band. The offer he chose to accept was a two-month temporary tour with the Dave Brubeck Quartet, which ended up lasting twelve-and-a half years. It was during the period that Joe’s technique received its finishing touches from Billy Gladstone of Radio City Music Hall.

From 1968, when the Dave Brubeck Quartet disbanded, Joe spread his talents over a variety of areas. He maintained a very active private teaching practice. Through his association with DW Drums, Joe made great educational contributions to drumming, as well as the entire field of jazz, by way of his clinics, lectures and guest solo appearances. In his later years, Joe frequently performed with his own group in the New York metropolitan area.

Joe appeared on over 120 albums and CDs, of which 60 were with the Dave Brubeck Quartet. He won the Downbeat magazine award for best drummer for five years in a row, the Playboy award seven years in a row, and is the only drummer to win every music poll for five years in a row, including Japan, England, Europe, Australia and South America. He is mentioned in Who’s Who in the East, twelfth edition, and the Blue Book, which is a listing of persons in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United States who have achieved distinction in the arts, sciences, business or the professions. Revered by fans and musicians alike, Joe was considered to be one of the finest, and probably one of the most celebrated, drummers in the history of jazz.

Joe's impact on the world of music, and on all the lives of those he touched will live forever.

Visit Joe Morello's Home site for more at http://www.joemorello.net/index.shtml

PS: When I was a teenager, I learnt drums and taught myself Morello's solo on Take Five by the Dave Brubeck Quartet. Their enormously successful album Time Out was a huge influence on my early music taste.

Celebrate St Pat's day with MANTECA

from Graham Wood at The Ellington:

THURSDAY 8.00pm Manteca - It's St Patrick's day and we are celebrating with cold Guiness and traditional Irish Jazz Fusion music - The encore performance of the legendary jazz fusion band, Manteca, lead by Uwe Stengel and featuring St Patrick Reale on guitar. http://tinyurl.com/4botk9b

The Ellington Jazz Club. 191 Beaufort Street, Perth. Book now at http://www.ellingtonjazz.com.au

Suite101: Poets on Poetry - TS Eliot

The Contemporaneity of the Past

"The historical sense involves a perception, not only of the pastness of the past, but of its presence; the historical sense compels a man to write not merely with his own generation in his bones, but with a feeling that the whole of the literature of Europe from Homer and within it the whole of the literature of his own country has a simultaneous existence and composes a simultaneous order. This historical sense, which is a sense of the timeless as well as of the temporal and of the timeless and of the temporal together, is what makes a writer traditional. And it is at the same time what makes a writer most acutely conscious of his place in time, of his contemporaneity." - T.S. Eliot in “Tradition and the Individual Talent.”

This excerpt from Eliot's famous essay expresses the belief that good writing engages all of the writing that comes before it, and that good writers understand the lineage of literary ideas and movements. Through knowledge of the past, a writer does a better job of expressing ideas of the present.



Read more at Suite101: Poets on Poetry http://www.suite101.com/content/poets-on-poetry-a355273#ixzz1GZ8rOxD6

Issa Haiku

tagging along
for the meal...
the cat's girlfriend


-Issa, 1818

http://cat.xula.edu/issa/

Issa Haiku

hot day--
a staring contest with
a gargoyle


-Issa, 1824

http://cat.xula.edu/issa/

Alan Boyd's REVIEW - meet me at gethsemane - by Paul Harrison

Hey, I'm privileged.

Having heard Paul Harrison read his dark, witty and iconic poetry at slams, poetry-gigs, backyards, loungerooms and car-parks around Perth over the last few years (as well as over the phone, in txt messages and backseats of cars) - it's almost impossible not to hear his rich voice, the thick Irish cadence - as I consume this collection of his poetry.

Published by Coral Carter's gutsy - and very new - little Western Australian publishing venture: Mulla Mulla Press, meet me at gethsemane is a collection of over 30 poems, some previously appearing in various zines and online publications.

It's difficult at times to remember that this is Harrison's first book. The poems spill down the page with inherent readability. His economical, reflective phrasing, the deliberate poetic intention, the bold lack of pretension is honest. Brutal. Powerful.

These poems are complex nuggets of simple language - all presented in lower-case text, no punctuation - just clever use of white-space and enjambment to carry an image, an emotion, a reflection.

Each poem stands alone, in solid skeletal punch, yet somehow marries the next, and the next and the next one - perhaps conjoined in the bitter taste that permeates the book's 68 pages.

There is gutteral sadness here - and drinking - lots of drunken pain. There is violence, sex and truth - all told in ordinary prose. As in love one another:

...me and her
sometime in the early hours
had our usual
psycho-sexual brawl
and so
before any more windows or lamps
got broken
i jumped in the car
and fucked of for more
rear-ending some prick
stopped on green...

Short sharp bony bursts of well-crafted punch. Harrison shares hard tales of mental asylum inhabitants, too-many cigarettes smoked, raw emotions spat, drugs and regret and self-reflexive anger.

The way he writes is the way he speaks. This is not avant garde, process-driven, experimental wankery - Paul's well-written narrative carries each piece, allowing us to fully realise each moment shared.

This is the poetry of isolation and despair. This collection finds little hope in the human condition, and certainly no love for the malicious capitalist culture we share. Peppered throughout though, there is a wicked, dark humour and a gift for subtle description. And whilst the darkness flows within these pages, there is fragility and even a hidden beauty amongst this work.

Get it.

It's ten bucks from Mulla Mulla Press:
http://www.mullamullapress.com/books

ALLAN Anti-poet BOYD

THE 2011 PETER COWAN 600 SHORT STORY COMPETITION

GUIDLINES FOR ENTRY

Competition Rules:
Number of words: Maximum 600 per story
Closing Date: 20 May 2011
Prizes: First $200; Second $100; Third $50
Certificates; Highly Commended four; Commended four
Entry Fee: $5 per story; Three stories for $12; Five stories for $20

Theme: Open

1. All entries should be in English using one side A4 paper, typed, double spaced in size 12 font.

2. All entries must be accompanied by a signed entry form (photocopies accepted). Do not attach the entry form to your work.

3. Entries must be unpublished and not have won a cash prize or recognition in any
other competition.

4. Copyright remains with the author. Entries will not be returned and will be destroyed after the announcement of the results.

5. Peter Cowan Writers Centre reserves the right to publish without payment the Winning, Second place, Third place, Highly Commended and Commended entries in its E-Magazine.

6. Multiple entries are allowed, in which case one cheque or money order is acceptable to cover all entries. Cheques or money orders should be made payable to ‘Peter Cowan Writers Centre Inc.’ Do not send coins, stamps or cash in the mail.

7. The author’s real name must not appear on the manuscript. A pen name MUST be used – a different one for each entry. A plain sheet of paper with the following details should be securely attached to each of your submissions:

TITLE OF ENTRY
PEN NAME USED
NUMBER OF WORDS

8. All entries must be post marked by the due date. Late entries will not be considered. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Details of the presentation will be published on the Peter Cowan Writers Centre’s website and at the July Monthly Meeting. If you wish to receive a results slip and judge’s report, please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

9. Send entries to:
The Receiving Officer
Peter Cowan 600 Short Story Competition
Peter Cowan Writers Centre Inc.
PO Box 239
Joondalup WA 6919

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PETER COWAN WRITERS CENTRE INC
2011 PETER COWAN 600 SHORT STORY COMPETITION
Separate entry form to accompany each entry (forms may be photocopied)
PRIZES: Winner $200, Second $100, Third $50
Certificates: Highly Commended (four), Commended (four)
(please print)

NAME:
______________________________________________________________

ADDRESS:
______________________________________________________________

_________________________________ Post Code: _______

Phone: ________________________Mobile No: _______________________

Email address:
_____________________________________________________________

Number of Words:_____________________

Title of work:_______________________Pen Name__________________________

Amount paid:_____________Method of Payment____________________________

Declaration: I certify that the work I have entered in this award is my own, is unpublished, will not be offered for publication before the 3rd of July and has not won recognition in any competition. By entering this award I agree to my work being published without payment on the Peter Cowan Writers Centre E-Magazine if I finish among the first eleven entries. I understand that copyright will at all times stay with me, the author of the work. I have read the conditions of entry into this award and agree to abide by them.

Signed___________________________ this _________

day of ____________ 2011

For office use only

Date received___________Amount received ________Method of payment____________

No entries________

If paid by cash receipt no:_______________________

Su Shi's poem, Dogen's commentary

The sound of the stream – Buddha’s long broad tongue,
The form of the mountains – his pure body.
Ten thousand verses through the night,
In the morning, how will I explain them to others?

by Su Shi

Dōgen’s commentary:

On the night that Su Shi was enlightened, he had just heard his master’s teaching about insentient beings preaching the Dharma. His teacher’s words did not instantly awaken him, but when the sound of the stream hit him, it was as if the rolling waves passed through the air and enlightened Su Shi. Was it the sound of the stream or his master’s words that flowed into his ears? I would suppose that his master’s teaching on insentient beings quietly echoed with the sound of the stream at night...

Wittgenstein Quote

I sit astride life like a bad rider on a horse. I only owe it to the horse's good nature that I am not thrown off at this very moment.

- Ludwig Wittgenstein

Noongar author, Kim Scott, wins Commonwealth Writers' Prize

from the Sydney Morning Herald ...

AS THE first Aboriginal author to win the Commonwealth Writers' Prize for best book in south-east Asia and the Pacific, Kim Scott would be entitled to feel some extra pride.

''No,'' he says. ''It bothers me a bit because it says what a history of disadvantage we've had when indigenous Australians have always been storytellers. It's really sad. What happened to our shared culture?''

Scott's winning third novel, That Deadman Dance, is about the harmonious relations between his Noongar people of south-western Australia and the early settlers.

Read more at http://www.smh.com.au/entertainment/books/noongar-storyteller-stays-true-to-his-roots-with-prizewinning-novel-20110302-1bewy.html

Tony Curtis, Irish Poet, this Saturday at The Perth Poetry Club

On Saturday 5th March, Perth Poetry Club presents, for your delectation and enjoyment - all the way from Ireland – the award-winning and highly entertaining poet TONY CURTIS. Tony will perform at The Moon, 323 William Street, Northbridge from 2 to 4 pm, in two sets. There will be open mic. as always.

TONY CURTIS was born in Dublin in 1955. He studied literature at Essex University and Trinity College Dublin. An award winning poet, Curtis has published six warmly received collections. The most recent ‘The Well in the Rain: New & Selected Poems’ (Arc, 2006). In 2003 he was awarded the Varuna House Exchange Fellowship to Australia. Curtis has been awarded the Irish National Poetry Prize. In 2008 ‘Days Like These’ (with Paula Meehan & Theo Dorgan) was published by Brooding Heron Press. A new collection ‘Folk’ has just been published by Arc. Curtis’s new book of poems for children ‘An Elephant Called Rex’ may be ready in time for his visit to Australia. He is a member of Aosdána, the Irish Academy of the Arts.

Happy Birthday, Richard Wilbur - 90 Today

Richard Wilbur is one of USA's elder statesmen of poetry. Read this article from The Wall Street Journal online at http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704150604576166452338502880.html?mod=googlenews_wsj

"One of the jobs of poetry is to make the unbearable bearable, not by falsehood but by clear, precise confrontation," he has said. Mr. Wilbur has met that challenge by holding himself to the strict, outmoded view that what can't be described well maybe isn't worth writing down.

Contemporary Poetry Writing Workshops at Tom Collins House March-April 2010

When? 10am-12 noon Wednesdays for 7 weeks starting TOMORROW 2 March 2010.
Where? Tom Collins House, Swanbourne.

This course is for beginning poets and those with some experience. Explore contemporary poetry writing in a friendly group setting with experienced poet Janet Jackson as your guide.

With a series of writing activities, exercises and experiments we will release our poetic voices, finding inspiration in our surroundings, in other texts and art, and in randomness. We will discover and invent new connections and ideas. We will learn about form, content, voice, address and imagery. We will explore the music of words, how poets make them sing, sigh and cry.

We will also learn about editing and improving our poems to make them more beautiful, more satisfying and perhaps more publishable.

Participants will receive a booklet with example poems, information about techniques and activities, further reading and resources.

Course aims:

1. Participants will explore poetry writing through a progression of writing activities and techniques and by reading and hearing poetry from various periods and genres.
2. Participants will have opportunities to write in ways they may not have previously tried.
3. Participants will come away with drafts and ideas for new poems.
4. Participants will learn ways to improve their drafts by editing.
5. Participants will discover some of the resources available to poets locally, nationally and internationally.

Presented by Janet for the Fellowship of Australian Writers WA (FAWWA).

Cost per session: $33 for FAWWA members; $44 for non-members

Sign up with FAWWA at http://www.fawwa.org.au/

Take a look at this! Can we believe it?

After our record breaking HOT summer, I don't know whether this would still be true!

Apologies for Silence

My apologies - I've been off the air for a number of days while away, staying at Karri Valley Resort out of Pemberton in the South West of Western Australia. It was a throw back in time: no Internet access! No mobile phone access! Not even pigeon post ... No television either, but that's by the by.

We did have a million trees and soaring temperatures. Saturday, we went on a little train trip through the forest and Sunday walked the famous Tree Tops Walk in a Tinglewood forest in Walpole among trees 400 years old and a few older. They were massive! And we were walking about seven eights of their height - my wife was a little nervous cos the walkway was swaying but it was all very safe. In fact, the engineering was a point of amazement - I would have liked to see it being built! Maybe the WA tourism bureau has a doco on DVD ... Anyway, lots of photos of lots of trees - so I shall select a few and post them here for your amusement.

The weekend was spent there to celebrate June Carey's 75th birthday - so happy birthday once again, June. We had a wonderful dinner at the Karri Valley Restaurant to celebrate her birthday. Once again I finished the evening off with sticky date pudding - I'm so bloody predictable

The Southerly India issue Teaser

The next issue of Southerly, our much anticipated India-Australia issue, is due in March. But we hate to keep you waiting any longer, so we have for you a Long Paddock teaser! Part of the Long Paddock, our free online component, is going up today to give you a taste of the fabulous bumper issue to come. We have stories, poems, reviews and essays – and that’s just for starters! More content will go up when the issue comes out. So check out the Long Paddock at http://southerlyjournal.com.au/long-paddock/70-3-india/, and let us know what you think!

Cheers,

Tessa

Howard Levy (Chicago) headlines this week at The Ellington

Grammy award winner, founding member of Bela Flek and the Flecktones and universally acknowledged as the world’s most advanced diatonic harmonica player. Howard Levy is an artist not to be missed - one show only this Tuesday night.

MONDAY 21st Feb 7.30pm Song Lounge Program Launch 2011 - no fewer than eight singers will grace the stage on the night, giving patrons a taste of what's in store in 2011. David Lazarus, Minky G, Georgia Mooney, Darren Forster, Prita, Siboney Doglio, Bianca Jade and Mitch Becker. Unmissable! http://www.facebook.com/l/012ebitf__FXBTeVwbAM4LGwmog/tinyurl.com/69m4xjs

TUESDAY 8.00pm Howard Levy (Chicago) - quite simply a legendary musician without limits. His musical adventures include journeys into jazz, pop, rock, world music, Latin, classical, folk, blues, country, theater, and film. Howard developed a fully chromatic style on the standard 10 - hole diatonic harmonica, revolutionizing harmonica playing and taking the instrument into totally new territory. Joined by Graham Wood (piano), Paul Pooley (bass) and Chris Tarr (drums). http://www.facebook.com/l/012ebIBgC4AxmEZLp5va1bqhIOg/tinyurl.com/68btstl



Become a member today for great benefits and also help support live music - http://www.facebook.com/l/012ebqZJWnYWfjyt5z7uhA7K4Fg/www.ellingtonjazz.com.au/index.php/memb

Book your function at The Ellington - email: bourbywebster@ellingtonjazz.com.au

Book online to avoid disappointment - http://www.facebook.com/l/012ebV4TplOVYs7jKZLIiasrNJw/www.ellingtonjazz.com.au/index.php/schedule

Happy birthday, Banjo

frost has formed--
I see whiteness
in my nostrils!


-Issa, 1811

http://cat.xula.edu/issa/

Eureka Street writing awards 2011

The 2011 Eureka Street/Reader's Feast Award for Social Justice/Human Rights Writing
(for writers 30+)

Australia 2031: 2011 marks the 20th anniversary of both Eureka Street magazine and Reader's Feast Bookstore. Picking up on this '20 years' theme, the 2011 Eureka Street/Reader's Feast Award invites speculative fiction and non-fiction that imagines what life will be like in Australia, 20 years into the future.
The focus should be on an aspect of human rights or social justice (environmental or societal) and all essays/stories should explore the issue in terms of its relevance to living an ethical life in Australia. Past winners have featured a strong humane perspective and proposed alternative ways forward, but we would welcome alternative, especially highly imaginative, approaches.
The winner will be announced and the Award presented during Reader's Feast Bookstore's Crime and Justice festival, taking place in Melbourne on 15, 16 and 17 July 2011, and will be published online in Eureka Street.

Submission Guidelines (read carefully)
1. The award of $5000 is open to any Australian writer aged 30 or over as of 1 January 2011.
2. Only previously unpublished essays and stories will be considered.
3. Essays and stories should be no longer than 2000 words.
4. All entries must be received by 5pm Friday 10 June 2011.
5. Electronic submissions only. Please email your submission as a Word attachment to eureka@eurekastreet.com.au. Include the words 'Submission: Eureka Street/Reader's Feast Award' in the subject line. Include a Cover Letter in the body of your email, stating your full name, age, postal address and a contact telephone number.
6. The judge's decision is final; no correspondence will be entered into.
7. The winning author shall be asked to submit paperwork directly to Reader's Feast that includes an ABN and full banking information so the award money can be forwarded.
8. By submitting entries to the Eureka Street/Reader's Feast Award, the author acknowledges that the essay or story is their own original work, and agrees to abide by the rules of the competition and the decision of the judges.


Margaret Dooley Award for Young Writers 2011
(under-30s age category)

(Note: Entries to the Margaret Dooley Award DO NOT NEED to reflect the theme of the Eureka Street/Reader's Feast Award.)

Eureka Street's Margaret Dooley Award is offered to support the development of young writers. Entrants should submit a piece of writing that offers reasoned ethical argument based on humane values. This could take many forms, for example: advocacy or criticism of current ethical frameworks; an ethical response to a contemporary social or political issue; ethical exploration of personal experience or cultural phenomena.
The winner's essay, and the two runners-up, will be announced and presented during Reader's Feast Bookstore's Crime and Justice festival, taking place in Melbourne on 15, 16 and 17 July 2011, and will be published online in Eureka Street.

Submission Guidelines
1. The award of $1500 is open to any writer under the age of 30, as of 1 January 2010. Second place in the award is awarded $350, and third $150.
2. Entrants must submit a previously unpublished piece of ethical exploration that will engage a non-specialist audience. Contributions will be judged for their appeal to humane values, such as those that are found within, but are not exclusive to, the best of the Christian humanist tradition. These should be expressed in clear argument and elegant expression, and a generosity and courtesy of spirit within forceful argument.
3. The piece of writing should be no longer than 1500 words.
4. All entries must be received by 5pm Friday 10 June 2010.
5. Electronic submissions only. Please email your submission as a Word attachment to eureka@eurekastreet.com.au. Include the words 'Submission: Margaret Dooley Award' in the subject line. Include a COVER LETTER in the body of your email, stating your full name, age, postal address and a contact telephone number.
6. The awards will be made only if the judges believe the winning entries are of sufficient quality. The judge's decision is final; no correspondence will be entered into.
7. By submitting entries to the 2011 Margaret Dooley Award, the author acknowledges that the pieces are their own original work, and agrees to abide by the rules of the competition and the decision of the judges.

Vote for 'Indexical Elegies' NOW!

Jon Paul Fiorentino's book Indexical Elegies is up for an award in Canada - but he needs your vote Now! Time is running out ... Please go to http://www.cbc.ca/books/bookclub/2011/02/more-bookies-nominees-revealed-get-your-votes-in.html

Top photo: John Ashbery by Larry Rivers at Tibor de Nagy

“Portrait and Poem Painting” (1961), by Larry Rivers and Frank O’Hara, Image courtesy of Tibor de Nagy Gallery, New York.

An Exploration of Poem Painting and More by Wendy Voorsanger at http://dgvcfaspring10.wordpress.com/2011/02/10/an-exploration-of-the-poem-painting-and-more-by-wendy-voorsanger/

Another site to see along the same lines: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/21/arts/design/21tibor.html?_r=2

'Sentimental' - poem by Pam Brown

In August 2010, Bob Arnold’s Vermont-based Longhouse Press published a pamphlet of six of Pam Brown's poems. Here is one I particularly liked and also liked its presentation.

Quit Smoking

Dear [Reader]

Because your health is all that matters.

As the head of WA’s leading health fund I believe HBF has a responsibility to help West Australians to live healthy lives.

So I am writing to you, and all other HBF members, in support of the latest campaign to help and encourage people to quit smoking.

The rates of smoking have fallen dramatically in recent years but tobacco is still the single largest preventable cause of premature death and disease in Australia. As many West Australians have discovered, quitting is always possible and the benefits are huge.

Did you know that within five days of quitting smoking most nicotine has left your body and that your risk of a heart attack is halved? This is one of the messages from the Australian Government's largest ever National Tobacco Campaign, launched on 30 January 2011. The new campaign carries a simple call to action for all smokers – attempt to quit today.

There are many services available to support quit attempts. For help, people should go to their doctor or pharmacist, call the Quitline on 13 7848 or visit the Quitnow web site at: www.australia.gov.au/quitnow.

If you are one of the majority of Australians who do not smoke I hope you’ll understand why we have decided to send this to all our members. And if you know a smoker, please pass this on - it might just be the message that helps them quit.

Best regards


Rob Bransby
Managing Director
HBF


I don't smoke, btw. I tried it as a teenager, but never caught the bug. I had plenty of other vices, but I am sure glad smoking cigarettes wasn't one of them! Andrew

Issa's Haiku

plum in full bloom--
a house without sake
can't be found


-Issa

http://cat.xula.edu/issa/

The Poetry and Prose of Elizabeth Bishop by DANA GIOIA

Just press the title to read the full article from the Wall Street Journal.

Sharing of wisdom under the Boab tree - Eureka Street

Sharing of wisdom under the Boab tree - Eureka Street

For those interested in men's health and cultural affairs in indigenous communities, this sounds like a valuable book.

Art Gallery of Western Australia - Great Collections of the World

Art Gallery of Western Australia - Great Collections of the World

Last day today, Monday. Open 10am - 8pm (last entry 7pm).

'Embedded Dreams' - by Jill Jones

We need rain, you bet, clouds
promise wind jazz, play low.
How risky, annihilation’s here
on the street, gaping holes.
Facts are round as reality
breathing like faithful dogs.
Generations stage burning thoughts,
the audience crosses its legs.

May your erasures rise
above stings and dreams,
the friendly palm,
mornings of machines.

Afterwards what’s claimed
(no-one knows).

- Jill Jones

from Shampoo. a great magazine of contemporary poetry at http://www.shampoopoetry.com/shampoothirtyeight/jones.htm

Hunter SHOES SALE up to 50% Off!

Hunter Store
shop 1/226 carr place
Leederville, Australia, 6007

There are possibly more important things to say, but 'laughter is the best medicine' as Reader's Digest used to say ...

Geoff Page - Guest Poet at FAWWA

Geoff Page, b.1940,is an Australian poet who has published 18 collections of poetry as well as two novels, four verse novels & other works including anthologies, translations and a biography of the jazz musician, Bernie McGann. He retired at the end of 2001 from being head of the English Department at Narrabundah College in the ACT. Geoff has won many awards, including the ACT Poetry Award, the Grace Leven Prize, the Christopher Brennan Award, the Queensland Premier’s Prize for Poetry & the 2001 Patrick White Literary Award. Geoff’s poems have been translated into Chinese, Hindi, German, Serbian, Slovenian and Greek. He has also read his work & talked about Australian poetry around the world.


Using Traditional Forms in Contemporary Poetry
This will be a quick look at the role still being played by traditional metres and forms in contemporary Australian poetry. It will present an opportunity for each participant to have one of their own poems in traditional form considered in detail in a workshop situation. Forms such as the sonnet, villanelle, sestina, pantoum, tanka and haiku will be discussed as well as the use of iambic metre and various stanzaic forms (such as the ballad) as occasional alternatives to the prevailing free verse orthodoxy.

Participants should submit one poem (written in some sort of traditional form) for consideration a fortnight before the workshop.

Book NOW to ensure your place at this workshop with leading Australian poet Geoff Page. (Ph. 9384 4771; Email: admin@fawwa.org.au

Members: $30
Non-members: $45
Date: Saturday 12th February 10:30 to 12:30
Where: Tom Collins House

WA Library looking for your zine ...

From the Desk of Sue Byrne ...

Greetings!

I work at the State Library of Western Australia.
We are aiming to start at collection of zines.

Do you have any titles available?
I will be attending the picnic at Hyde Park on Saturday January 29th hosted by the Perth Zine Collective.
Could you bring along your zines?
Alternatively zines can be posted to :

Attention Sue Byrne
Collection Development
State Library of WA
25 Francis Street
Northbridge 6000

Contact me if you have any queries.
I am also on facebook.

Cheers,

Sue Byrne

Susan Byrne
Librarian Collection Development
T (08) 9427 3312
F (08) 9427 3152
E susan.byrne@slwa.wa.gov.au

Ellington Jazz Club Hosts Harry Winton - and a Great Oz Night

The musical fireworks will be at The Ellington - and you're allowed to drink!!! Join us Wednesday night for an excellent Australia Day show with Freddie Grigson, as well as the unique stylings of Pugsley Buzzard on Sunday.

WEDNESDAY - 8.00pm Freddie Grigson Quartet - Australia day Jazz show with the one and only Freddie Grigson in a smoking quartet setting. Avoid the traffic as we're just a short walk from the fireworks on the foreshore. http://tinyurl.com/4mspnax

THURSDAY 8.30pm Harry Winton Band - This versatile and talented young guitarist is stepping out for his first gig as a leader at The Ellington. After tearing it up at numerous late shows and jazz shows, expect a fantastic night of guitar from the son of famous author Tim Winton. http://tinyurl.com/4orsy7l

FRIDAY 8.00pm Libby Hammer - Rich vocals and masterful instrumentation from her impeccable rhythm section provide a raw, stylish romp through lesser-known gems of the standard songbook. http://tinyurl.com/4dhwvtz

FRIDAY 11.30pm Late night groove series featuring Sam Nafie and Megan McInerney - A special Ellington debut show. Megan is a Sydney based singer inspired by artists, Edith Piaf, Amy Winehouse, Adele, Billy Joel, Van Morrison, Sam Cooke and Camille. Sam Nafie has got it down in the realms of funk, blues, and all things soul. http://tinyurl.com/4tz9uh5

SATURDAY 8.00pm Ali Bodycoat Quintet - come and check the wonderful Ms. Bodycoat in a wonderful night of swinging standards and always with a great band. http://tinyurl.com/4c54bgs

SATURDAY 11.30pm Late night groove series featuring Danny Martin and Cian Caton - Delivering fresh selects from the Neo Soul, R&B and Hip Hop culture, bear witness to this premium six piece lineup featuring Hans Fiance (Keys), Dane Alderson (Bass), Ben Falle (Drums). http://tinyurl.com/4ptgf2l

SUNDAY 6.30pm Pugsley Buzzard (Sydney) - Pugsley Buzzard, piano player and singer with a distinctive sound plays funky New Orleans grooves, barrelhouse blues Harlem stride and modern stylings that feature loads of tantalising improvisations. Performing tonight in a quartet setting. http://tinyurl.com/45aujyb

MONDAY 7.30pm 2011 Chamber Jam Launch - It’s back! Chamber Jam, the unique chamber music showcase presented by North Street Music returns in 2011. Featuring Claire Bonner (Guitar), ISQ (The ‘contemporary’ version of the Imperial String Quartet) and Phil Everall (Bass Clarinet). http://tinyurl.com/46bol68

Coming soon:
February 24 Katie Noonan (Qld)
March 6th Albare (Melbourne)
March 8&9 Jose James TBC (USA)
March 20 Paul Williamson (Melbourne)
April 1 Colby Grant and Prita Grealy
April 12 Dominique Fillon (France)
May 1 Iro Rantala (Finland)
May 18&19 Martin Taylor and Alison Burns (UK)
May 24&25 Jazzgroove Mothership Orchestra
June 1&2 Aaron Goldberg Trio (USA)
June 3&4 Ari Hoenig (USA)
June 6&7 Jacam Manricks (USA)

Become a member today for great benefits and support live music http://www.ellingtonjazz.com.au/index.php/memb

Book your function at The Ellington - email: bourbywebster@ellingtonjazz.com.au

Book online to avoid disappointment http://www.ellingtonjazz.com.au/index.php/schedule


The Ellington Jazz Club. 191 Beaufort Street, Perth. W www.ellingtonjazz.com.au

Issa Haiku

the newly arrived goose
lifts one leg...
deep meditation


-Issa, 1817

http://cat.xula.edu/issa/

Meet your Makar - on the BBC Blog

First Scottish Makar of modern times was one of my favourites, Edwin Morgan - a scholarly witty man with a wonderful way with words for public and private occasions. Unfortunately he has met his original Maker, so now the Scots have elected a new Makar :: Liz Lochhead (pic).

A small piece about it can be read at http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/thereporters/paulinemclean/2011/01/making_of_the_makar.html

Oh, clever Google!

Another look at the Villanelle

Here's a translation of Jean Passerat 's Villanelle from the 16th century (originally written in French.)

I Have Lost My Turtle Dove
by Jean Passerat

I have lost my turtledove:
Isn’t that her gentle coo?
I will go and find my love.

Here you mourn your mated love;
Oh, God–I am mourning too:
I have lost my turtledove.

If you trust your faithful dove,
Trust my faith is just as true;
I will go and find my love.

Plaintively you speak your love;
All my speech is turned into
“I have lost my turtledove.”

Such a beauty was my dove,
Other beauties will not do;
I will go and find my love.

Death, again entreated of,
Take one who is offered you:
I have lost my turtledove;
I will go and find my love.

....

And much more to read, with examples, at http://oneshotpoetry.blogspot.com/2011/01/monday-one-stop-poetry-form-villanelle.html

Limelight magazine is now online!

The new homepage for fine music and the arts
http://e.limelightmagazine.com.au/cgi-bin16/DM/t/eCEDq0eKnxi0BKvM0CNF70AL


Take a tour of the new Limelight website. Watch now.
http://e.limelightmagazine.com.au/cgi-bin16/DM/t/eCEDq0eKnxi0BKvM0CNF80AM


Australia has such an exciting fine music and arts scene, but there has never been a website devoted to it, which is why I am so thrilled to be launching the Limelight site.
http://e.limelightmagazine.com.au/cgi-bin16/DM/t/eCEDq0eKnxi0BKvM0CNGA0AW

This will be a hub for lovers of fine music, a place where you can get the latest news about musicians and music, the reviews of the most exciting new CDs and DVDs, interviews with touring artists - everything our readers are used to getting in the magazine, but in a fresh, constantly renewing format.

ABC Classic FM broadcasts are a big part of what we do at Limelightt, and we've repackaged the ABC Classic FM listings to make them really user-friendly, so it's easier to find out when the music you enjoy is being broadcast.
http://e.limelightmagazine.com.au/cgi-bin16/DM/t/eCEDq0eKnxi0BKvM0CNGB0AX

Concertgoers will love our comprehensive Event Finder - http://e.limelightmagazine.com.au/cgi-bin16/DM/t/eCEDq0eKnxi0BKvM0CNGC0AY , which lists classical music concerts across Australia. So whether you live in Melbourne or Mount Isa, you'll be able to find all the performances happening near you. We'll also have the latest news on music and musicians from Australia and overseas.
http://e.limelightmagazine.com.au/cgi-bin16/DM/t/eCEDq0eKnxi0BKvM0CNGD0AZ

In our Reviews section - http://e.limelightmagazine.com.au/cgi-bin16/DM/t/eCEDq0eKnxi0BKvM0CNGE0Aa , readers can access all our CD, DVD and film reviews - and enjoy audio and video samples of the works. We've also got some terrific blogs from some of Australia's most respected musicians, including Guy Noble and Brett Weymark, so readers can get a fascinating insight into what happens behind the scenes in Australian music.
http://e.limelightmagazine.com.au/cgi-bin16/DM/t/eCEDq0eKnxi0BKvM0CNGF0Ab

The Limelight website is going to be the new homepage for music and arts lovers: it's a site that is not dumbed-down, is full of interesting words, sound and video, and is a true reflection of the country's musical and artistic life.

We'd love to have our readers' feedback: you can write your comments on the site, or send an email to letters@limelightmagazine.com.au.

Also, if you'd like to get weekly updates on what's new on the Limelight site, you can register for our newsletter and become part of our community.
http://e.limelightmagazine.com.au/cgi-bin16/DM/t/eCEDq0eKnxi0BKvM0CNGG0Ac

If you like fine music and great performances, http://e.limelightmagazine.com.au/cgi-bin16/DM/t/eCEDq0eKnxi0BKvM0CNF70AL is your site

Francis Merson
Editor

Caselberg Trust International Poetry Prize for 2011

Website easily found: google Caselberg Poetry, from which I copy this:
(Landfall is NZ's oldest literary quarterly, and well designed)



Judged by Bernadette Hall

First prize, $500, Second prize $250, plus 5 Highly-commended (no monetary prizes).
The first- and second-placed poems will be published in the May 2011 issue of Landfall, and all winning and highly-commended entries will be published on the Caselberg Trust web-site (copyright remains with the authors).

Conditions of Entry
1. Poems must be the original work of the entrant, previously unpublished, and not submitted elsewhere.
2. Limit of 40 lines per poem.
3. Entry fee: $5 for one poem, or $10 for up to three poems from any one entrant.
4. Entries must be typed, double-spaced, on one side of A4 paper.
5. Any style or subject will be considered.
6. The poet¹s name must not appear on the manuscript. Please fill out the entry form provided and send it in with your poem(s).
7. Entries must be submitted by post to ŒCaselberg Poetry Prize, PO Box 71, Portobello, Dunedin 9048, NZ¹, to arrive not later than 31 January 2011.
8. The entry fee should be enclosed, preferably by cheque made out to Œthe Caselberg Trust¹ for $5 or $10 (or its NZ equivalent if entering from overseas); notes also acceptable.
9. Please enclose stamped, self-addressed envelope if you want a receipt, or if you would like to receive a copy of the Judge¹s report in due course.
10. Winners only will be notified of their success.
11. The Judge¹s decisions will be final, and no correspondence will be entered into.

Cut here....................................Cut here.................................

ENTRY FORM, CASELBERG TRUST INTERNATIONAL POETRY PRIZE 2011
(Please print clearly. Thank you.)

Your Name....................................................

Phone No....................

Address.....................................................................

...................

..................................................................

E-mail.......................

Title(s) or first line(s) of Poem(s):

1...........................................................................
.....................

2...........................................................................
.....................

3...........................................................................
.....................

Poem-of-the-Week from Frank's Home

Go to http://frankshome.org for this and other great poems. Frank Parker also has a Poem-of-the-Week appearing on facebook, if y're in the vicinity.

Donations for Queensland Flood Relief

http://www.haikuoz.org/2011/01/donations_for_queensland_flood.html



------------------------------------------------------------------------

We have all seen the images of devastation caused in Queensland by the
recent floods, and felt concern for the thousands of people who have
lost family, their homes and possessions. Graham Nunn has started a
flood relief appeal using sales of his most recent book of poetry,
Ocean Hearted, as well as personal donations to raise much needed funds
for the tens of thousands of people who are facing great personal loss.
All moneys raised will be contributed to the Queensland Premier’s
Flood Relief Appeal.

Details of Graham’s project are here: http://bit.ly/hkg55h

Please contribute what you can. Those affected by the flooding need
all the help they can get at this stage . . . it's going to be a long
road out.

Poet Laureate for Western Australia?

I saw this in my email incoming this morning, and it prompted me to think it would be nice if we had a Poet Laureate for Western Australia. We may have to begin without a budget, but poets are no doubt used to that Suggested poets would include Andrew Taylor, Fay Zwicky, Caroline Caddy, Dennis Haskell (he may be too busy!!), Kevin Gillam, Anna Marie Weldon, Glen Phillips - and the list goes on. We do have a fine array of poets, don't we!

Here's the email I refer to:

*The application for California Poet Laureate is now open. The submission deadline is February 1, 2011.*http://www.cac.ca.gov/poetlaureate/main.php

*If you are a poet, I encourage you to nominate yourself. I also encourage all of you to nominate the amazing poets in California!*

*California's poets are absolutely among the most prestigious in the nation. The California Poet Laureate is a Governor's appointee. We now have a new Governor, and it is also time to begin the selection process for the next California Poet Laureate. The mission of the California Poet Laureate is to spread the art of poetry from classrooms to boardrooms across the state, to inspire an emerging generation of literary artists, and to educate all Californians about the many poets and authors who have influenced our great state through creative literary expression.*

*I look forward to reading your nominations!*


Kristin Margolis
Literary Arts Specialist
California Arts Council * *

...

Just a thought. Maybe we could ask some illustrious benefactor to finance the first year - payment for visiting schools and universaties, organising some events, travelling to outback areas, appearinf on radio and TV, and running a dedicated blog.

Poem by Zbigniew Herbert

Okay, so I indulge myself, but I do hope my sharing of some of my favourite poems and poets also entertains you.

I Would Like to Describe

I would like to describe the simplest emotion
joy or sadness
but not as others do
reaching for shafts of rain or sun
I would like to describe a light
which is being born in me
but I know it does not resemble
any star
for it is not so bright
not so pure
and is uncertain
I would like to describe courage
without dragging behind me a dusty lion
and also anxiety
without shaking a glass full of water
to put it another way
I would give all metaphors
in return for one word
drawn out of my breast like a rib
for one word
contained within the boundaries
of my skin
but apparently this is not possible
and just to say -- I love
I run around like mad
picking up handfuls of birds
and my tenderness
which after all is not made of water
asks the water for a face
and anger
different from fire
borrows from it
a loquacious tongue
so is blurred
so is blurred
in me
what white-haired gentlemen
separated once and for all
and said
this is the subject
and this is the object
we fall asleep
with one hand under our head
and with the other in a mound of planets
our feet abandon us
and taste the earth
with their tiny roots
which next morning
we tear out painfully

--Zbigniew Herbert

From "Selected Poems of Zbigniew Herbert"; translated by Czeslaw Milosz and Peter Dale Scott

Another White Pill - poem by Andrew Burke

Such
a small pill,
circular, white, with
a central line chiseled in.

Dreams spring from
here, wave after wave in
the streaming syntax
of sleep,

pressed out
and lined in by
factory workers who
dream in a different language
of work hours and breaks –

packaging, dispatch, trucks,
planes and warehouses –
such a long way
until dreams are
unspooled

and translated
here, in the mind that
directs the hand
that writes the letters
that make the words
that boast of dreams.

Poem: LISTENING TO MERWIN

He's giving a TV interview
first extolling the beauty of Hawaii
he's one of the ones who escaped.

Imagination, he says, defines us
as humans, able to eschew propaganda,
but he's read everything, including
the propaganda he disprizes. We

are supposed to have dominion over
the beasts of the air and the field, we
are supposed understand all things
through our nerves and skin
except how to hear what they tell us.

He starts each day writing down notes
in a spiral notebook
each morning
no computer
his door is open
listening for a sound
until it comes

He does not speak of effort
but transcribes, perhaps,
perhaps he will not say he is
a sacred stenographer
but that's his gist
he is not decorative
not about seeking an answer
not he nor we will ever have.

--------------
Ken Wolman

The Life and Haiku of Basho

The crane's legs
have gotten shorter
in the spring rain.

*

A field of cotton–
as if the moon
had flowered.

*

Another year gone–
hat in my hand,
sandals on my feet.

*

Harvest moon–
walking around the pond
all night long.

*

The oak tree:
not interested
in cherry blossoms.

*

A bee
staggers out
of the peony.

*

A cicada shell;
it sang itself
utterly away.


Read more at Suite101: Matsuo Basho: The Life and Haiku of Basho http://www.suite101.com/content/matsuo-basho-the-life-and-haiku-of-basho-a328685#ixzz1AJW0OCsb

Perth Poetry Club back in action this Saturday at The MOON

Perth Poetry Club is back in action this Saturday 8th January, with a double dose of inspiration for the New Year: well-known local talents SCOTT-PATRICK MITCHELL and STEVE (SJ) FINCH will kick 2011 off with a bang, at The Moon, 323 William Street, Northbridge, from 2 to 4 pm. Plus open mike – all welcome.

SCOTT-PATRICK MITCHELL is a poet & writer who lives in Perth, Western Australia. He is an arts and fashion journalist for OUTinPerth Newspaper and is a poetry editor for dotdotdash. In 2009 he won The PressPress Poetry Chapbook Award and won the 2010 Perth Poetry Slam. In June he appeared as one of three emerging West Australian poets in Fremantle Press’ latest release New Poets. He is studying a Masters in Performance Poetry, upgrading to a PhD in 2011, at the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts. In his downtime, he blogs his photographs of street art and obsesses over fashion.
_scott-patrick mitchell


In 2009, STEVE (SJ) FINCH decided to start a Perth-based literary journal dotdotdash. In 2010 he decided to start a vlog where he interviews his friends about their lives. In 2011 he decided to write some poetry for the Perth Poetry Club.
He is currently studying a PhD, and is located somewhere in the Moon.

Other events in Perth Poetry:

Cottonmouth:
When: 7:30pm Thursday 6 January 2011
Where: 459 Bar Rosemount Hotel 459 Fitzgerald St North Perth

Perth Poetry Slam at the Blue Room on Wednesday nights in February 2011

--
Perth Poetry Club, where slams meet sonnets.

Haikuleaks makes poems out of Wikileaks

Haikuleaks transforms some Wikileaks into haiku-shapes - not quite the real thing, but not even senryu - but fun. Here's just a smattering of them.


#
Trans-Atlantic Ties:
The Cases of Britain, France
and Germany.

#
He added that there
should be 'no blank checks, no checks
at all,' for Hamas.

#
They are being seen
as barometers for next
year's nationwide vote.

#
The vessels are met
either on shore or a short
distance off the coast.

#
The machines do not
operate well in non-air
conditioned spaces.

#
The forum would be
shaped with the broader picture
in mind, not just oil.

#
They also often
released hostages shortly
after their capture.

#
Post will be open
today for emergency
services only.

#
This does more than just
ensure that she has something
important to do.


Read them all at http://haikuleaks.tetalab.org/

One Evening - a poem by William Stafford

On a frozen pond a mile north of Liberal
almost sixty years ago I skated wild circles
while a strange pale sun went down.

A scattering of dry brown reeds cluttered
the ice at one end of the pond, and a fitful
breeze ghosted little surface eddies of snow.

No house was in sight, no tree, only
the arched wide surface of the earth
holding the pond and me under the sky.

I would go home, confront all my years, the tangled
events to come, and never know more than I did
that evening waving my arms in the lemon-colored light.

-- William Stafford

Born Jan. 17, 1914, in Kansas, the much-beloved poet and pacifist William Stafford taught at Lewis & Clark College for 32 years. A longtime resident of Lake Oswego, he won the National Book Award in 1963 for "Traveling Through the Dark" and served as poet laureate of Oregon and the United States. He died in 1993. Throughout the month of January, the Friends of William Stafford sponsor many readings to celebrate Stafford's life. This year, two birthday celebrations are scheduled in the Portland metropolitan area Sunday, Jan. 9. At 2 p.m. in the auditorium of Beaverton City Library (12375 S.W. Fifth St., Beaverton), Ursula K. Le Guin and Molly Gloss will read; and at 7 p.m. at Stonehenge Studios (3508 S.W. Corbett Ave.), VOX: A Spoken Word Chorus will perform Stafford poems. Both events are free and will conclude with open mikes for audience members to read Stafford poems. For more information about Stafford Birthday Celebrations, contact Paulann Petersen at paulann@paulann.net

"One Evening" appears in "The Way It Is" (Graywolf Press; 1998).

This poem and article from http://www.oregonlive.com/books/index.ssf/2011/01/poetry_one_evening.html

haiku for the new year

spring, ten ducklings born –
new year, eight fly away from
the cracked lake bed.