For the first time in a long time (more than ten years ago I now realise) I went to the Poetry Cafe in Betterton Street for the open mic evening. It was heaving! I don't remember it being nearly so full when I was last there. Still it was good to be back amidst the poetic throng.
When I returned downstairs I was lucky to find seats and I pondered and re-pondered over what to read when my time arrived. We were told by our MC, Niall, that there were 35 readers - minds and eyes boggled. We were alloted a strict 5 minutes per reader and if we reached the said time, we would be halted in our tracks, not a thought to be relished.
Well all I can say is that I must speak a lot slower than most as I did two shortish poems, "Flame with no name" and "Inner Garden" followed by (rather optimistically) a longer one "Words just dance" and yes, I was there caught in the headlights like a little wabbit not sure where to wun. Again note to self, practise reading poems and note times so that next time the bunny can cross the road and dance and whirl back to her seat before the buzzer goes off. I wasn't the only one left gawping mid-poem and this brought me some relief but it was just sad for the poems to be cut off like that. Still rules is rules.
Some lovely stuff so thanks to one and all for the poems, sorry I couldn't stay for the second half, the old creative sponge of the mind was fit to bursting. Hop or hope to see yous all again soon!
Maybe see you at the Take-a-pew private view on 3 June where there'll be some poetry and a chance to make harmonious sounds together.. See http://www.take-a-pew.blogspot.com/ for details. Or, I'll be at the London Buddhist Centre in Bethnal Green this Saturday (24th) for their Poetry East event at 7.30pm where this time Fiona Sampson will be the visitng poet (last time it was Mimi Khalvati, lovely) - see http://poetryeast.net/ for details.
Wordygirl
