Upcoming Programming:
April 13, 2021: From Poetry to Prose in a Flash Workshop with Kelly Fordon: What is the difference between flash fiction and poetry? In this workshop, we’ll read some examples of each, we’ll discuss what might motivate us as writers to choose either flash fiction or prose poetry, and we’ll generate some new material you can hone into either one….or maybe even both! 6:30-9pm at The Tuxedo Project (on zoom). More information here.
April 23, 2021: Reading with the Great Indoor Reading Series at 8pm. More information here.
May 1st, 2021: Writing While White: How to be a Voice of Change
These are confusing times to be a white writer with inclusive intentions. How do you address diversity in your work? What do you have permission to write about? How do you create realistic nonwhite characters? How do you be an ally when white voices are subject to so much scrutiny? This session will be a safe place to get some of your questions answered and develop a new lens through which you can be a powerful voice in the quest for racial reconciliation. This workshop will be conducted by African American lecturer, essayist, and author Desiree Cooper. Poet Terry Blackhawk and short story writer Kelly Fordon will join the panel to share their experiences as white writers addressing race in their work. This workshop will include a lecture and panel discussion, along with writing prompts to help explore new territory for white writers. More information about this online class here.
June 23, 2021: Crazy Wisdom Poetry Circle Reading
Kelly Fordon, an award-winning writer and teacher from the Detroit metro area, explores personal and class conflicts in city and suburb. Her two recent story collections from Wayne State University Press are I Have the Answer and Garden for the Blind. Her poetry includes one book, Goodbye Toothless House, and three chapbooks. http://www.kellyfordon.com
7:00 PM – 8:45 PM EDST • Wednesday, June 23, 2021
Email cwpoetrycircle@gmail.com for Zoom link.
The link will be sent via email the day of the event.
The reading will be followed by an open mic. Participants are welcome to to read a poem of their own or a favorite.
Your hosts: Ed Morin, David Jibson and Rainey Lissa Perrin.
Past Programming:
June 16, 2020: Reading and Discussion of “I Have the Answer,” online via Harrison Township Library. Sign up here.
May 27, 2020: “Building Your Literary Community” panel discussion with Desiree Cooper, Lolita Hernandez and Laura Hulthen Thomas online via Wayne State University Press.
May 14, 2020: Bookclub discussion of “I Have the Answer” with Grosse Pointe book club online.
April 7th, 2020: Launch party for “I Have the Answer” via the Grosse Pointe Public Library online.
Videos from Past Events:
Lit Youngstown Reading August 2020.
The Inner Loop Readings Series February 16, 2021.