On Saturday 6th April at 3pm, the poetry anthology I am publishing (and contributing to) will be launched to a modest fanfare at The Oak Tree in Helperby, North Yorkshire.
The anthology is called “Oak Tree Alchemy”. Spot the link? As Brian Clark, co-editor and fellow contributor, notes in the book’s foreword:
Oak Tree Alchemy, the title of this poetry collection brought to you by eleven members of The Poetry Society’s North Yorkshire Stanza group, has a more literal than literary derivation.
The poets meet, read and discuss their work once a month at The Oak Tree Inn, Helperby, a village between Boroughbridge and Easingwold. Their readings and discussions inspire them to write more and better poetry, with all its transformative powers.
The North Yorkshire Stanza was formed three years ago and its members range from new writers to published and prize-winning poets.
A major contribution to the Stanza’s popularity must be the luxurious private meeting facility provided by The Oak Tree. The book’s title justly reflects this and we are grateful for their continuing support.
The majority of the contributors will be at the launch where one poem from each of the poets will be read. Copies of the anthology – which is published the following day – will be available for signing and purchase at the reading.
However, it will be something of a bitter-sweet affair as one of our number, David McAndrew, sadly died last week. Even though David will not be there in person, he will certainly be there in spirit. And through his words too.
Champagne and canapés? Apparently the best way to warm up both the audience and participants! Exceptional service from the pub.
All welcome!
Ian Gouge - Writer 