What a treat it was to read with Beth Swann at Flyleaf Books in Chapel Hill last week. We read at the Second
Thursday Poetry & Open Mic Night, a monthly poetry event coordinated by Pam
Baggett and Stan Absher. There were about 20-25 people there, including my
sister Janice, my college roommate Fran and her husband, as well as good
friends Sally and Marylin. It's always fun to travel to a reading when I can
combine the poetry experience with visits with friends and family. (The night
before the reading three of us ate at Kitchen, a nearby restaurant in the same
strip mall, which I highly recommend. Seared salmon over collard greens—yum!)
At Flyleaf I read
mostly from My Dear, Dear Stagger Grass; and
Beth read from her book Port Desire,
published last year by Finishing Line Press. Poet Marjorie Stelmach says this
about the approach Beth takes with the book’s poems: “She examines the forces
that draw us equally to the safety of harbor and to the hazards of the open
ocean, open road, open heart. . . . In addition to a wide-ranging intelligence,
there is wisdom in these poems.” Congratulations, Beth!
The open mic following our readings proved what a lot of talent
the Chapel Hill area holds. It was a rich, active segment
of the program with a lively audience eager to show their support. Thanks to
all there for also showing that support to Beth and me. We loved being there!
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