It's National Poetry Day, so here's a load of cool poetry events to keep you wordsmiths happy.
Poetry is brilliant. In recognition of this fact, there is a national day for it occurring this Thursday 7th October 2010. After last year's centenary celebrations (National Poetry Day was founded in 1909, for those of you less good at counting) the theme this time round is 'Home'. In honour of this day, indeed this very article, please do feel free to add a few rhymes to the comment box below. Anything will do – I'm not picky. But no unnecessary cursing obviously.
There are plenty of wonderful events in the capital to dose you up with words. Here are some of our favourites in and around National Poetry Day:
Spread the Word: Penpals...Slam @ Bethnal Green Working Men's Club
This is a showcase of rising young writers aged 18 to 30. It's a great opportunity to hear fresh new storytelling and make your own contribution by sharing your writing. The theme this October is London. The maximum length of your contribution should be 5 minutes. Eight entrants will be picked at random to perform in front of a panel of judges for the chance to win £100.
National Poetry Day Live @ Clore Ballroom
Southbank Centre is transforming itself into a hive of poetry and spoken word events on National Poetry Day. Expect poetry in the foyers and hidden corners of Royal Festival Hall alongside live events from 2pm. Big names in poetry including Southbank Centre Artist in Residence Simon Armitage, Daljit Nagra, Ian Duhig, and Jane Draycott come together for an afternoon of performance and participation.
Forgetting Natasha by State of Flux @ Rich Mix
One woman's story of dementia is brought to the stage through dance, poetry and digital media in a multilayered performance that is both eye-opening and heart breaking. As Natasha's memory fades so does her identity. Struggling to hold on to herself, she writes down her life story but then forgets where she put it.
Art and the Sublime @ Tate Britain
A year-long display looking at the role of the sublime in art. Explored in depth by the likes of Edmund Burke, Samuel Taylor Coleridge and William Blake, the sublime is a topic that continues to fascinate artists, poets and academics to this day.
Click here to see all London poetry.
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