By Debbie Allen, Cofounder, Poets Against Racism & Hate USA
For years, a would-be poet spent untold hours scribbling poetic jottings in her ever-present notebook, drafting and revising and polishing poem after poem, reading poetry, learning about poetry, thinking about poetry, seeing poetry in nearly every experience she had. And doing all this in solitary fashion. Then one day a friend suggested she submit a poem to a local literary journal. After months of mulling over the idea, she did, promising herself that if the poem were to be accepted, she would muster the courage to read it at the journal’s customary issue-launch gathering. It was, and she did.
This was my introduction to participation in a local literary scene. It also was groundwork laid that eventually led to the creation of PARH USA.
Before my friend’s supportive suggestion, I wasn’t aware that a literary journal geared toward the area where I lived existed. I’ve thanked him silently often (and aloud too infrequently) for opening up a new world for me. Now I have an opportunity to pay it forward. Consider this blog post a supportive suggestion to become involved or increase your involvement in the literary scene in your locale.
Tapping into the literary goings-on of a region is usually a simple endeavor. Even in the smallest of towns, writers’ groups often exist. These offer caring environments for those early in their poetry journey and constructive critique for poets of all experience levels. Sharing your work is especially important when you write social justice poetry—poetry intended to have impact in the public sphere. A direct and immediate way to make your voice heard is by reading or performing your poetry at an open mic. Look for these at community venues such as coffee shops or bookstores. You also can share your social justice poetry with the citizenry by submitting to a local or regional literary journal. If you’re lucky enough to have a literary group or guild in your location, you may have access to readings by high-profile poets and workshops on various topics. Such organizations, as well as nearby colleges and universities, may even organize dayslong writing conferences or festivals. To become even more entrenched with a local literary organization, consider volunteering or applying to serve on the organization’s board.
I speak from experience when I tout the benefits of capitalizing on a local literary scene. You’ll learn skills, hone your craft, build your confidence, and celebrate successes—your own and those of other poets in your circle. You’ll strengthen your sense of belonging and connection to place. You’ll meet new people, make new friends, and form bonds with compatriots who understand what it is to have a creative calling. As a social justice poet, you may even become an inspiration to others or make a difference in your community.
Obviously, there are numerous ways to immerse yourself in a local literary scene and numerous benefits of doing so. To find out what’s happening in your area, you can sign up to receive relevant newsletters, follow various groups or entities on social media, or monitor community calendars or event information platforms online. Once you’ve become a “local lit scene insider,” be sure to share what you know with other poets (as my friend did with me). If your community lacks opportunities, grab other poets and carpool to another town. Or better yet—start something literary in your own backyard!