The Motherlode Spring 2024: Women at the Helm

What do you believe is the purpose of poetry? TP: I believe poetry exists as an expression of our inner thoughts and feelings and has the ability to move mountains. HG: I think the purpose of poetry is to help us to connect with the world around us. SO: Poetry takes us in and outside our words, creating underground tunnels and wormholes that connect otherwise separate concepts. Poetry takes us in and outside of the experiences we describe in the same way. In doing so, I believe

poetry ultimately connects us more deeply to ourselves, the world, and one another. Are you a Mom Poet, too? Check out these local poetic resources to expand your craft: 49 West Coffeehouse Often hosts open mic poetry readings. Anne Arundel County Public Libraries

Evil Grin Poetry Series Emceed by local poets Rocky Jones and Cliff Lynn. Featured poet and open mic. Maryland Writers Association A not-for-profit organization supporting the art, business, and craft of writing in all its forms. Frequent meetings, workshops, local chapters, and First Friday (online) open mic events. Local Bookstores Local bookstores are great places to expand your poetry collection and hear local poets read their work. Check out Park Books in Severna Park, Wyrd Bookstore in Edgewater, and Old Fox Books in Annapolis.

AACPL often hosts published poets and writing workshops. To celebrate poetry month, catch the event "Grace Cavalieri and David Keplinger Celebrate National Poetry Month" at the Eastport-Annapolis Neck Branch from 7 to 8 p.m. Several branches also host Open Mic Nights and Adult Writer Groups. Check AACPL's Events page for more listings. AACC Personal Enrichment Writing Classes Non-credit writing classes are offered each semester, focusing on various writing genres, such as poetry, fiction, and memoir.

SPRING 2024 | 15

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