As if we didn’t have enough great things going on in April, it is also the birth month for William Shakespeare. So how should we honor the man generally considered the greatest author of the English language? Well, how about a marathon reading of all 154 of all of Shakespeare’s (known) sonnets? That’s how we … More Sonnets for Shakespeare
Not only is April host to Earth Day, but it also National Poetry Month here in the US. Those two events intersected yesterday in a program that Academy of American Poets Chancellor Jane Hirshfield developed called “Poets for Science.” Hirshfield is one of the most accomplished contemporary American poets, and environmental awareness has long been … More Poets for Science
I had a glorious weekend the past couple of days. How about you? For me, it wasn’t just that the weather was ideal and my community is alive with all the signs of spring–birds singing, colorful blossoms in the sky and on the ground, that special spring green color of brand-new leaves, or the people […]
On Wednesday, I took my high school literature class on a field trip to a local art museum for a special exhibit. It ended up being one of the best educational tours I’ve ever arranged–and I’ve arranged quite a few. It was thought provoking, engaging, confusing, humorous, and uplifting. Most of all, it reminded me, … More Encouraging Dialogue Through Art
Since Wednesdays are traditionally known as “Hump Day,” and often involve an alcoholic libation to celebrate the middle of the work week, I thought it might be an appropriate time to share a local good news story. Now, when I think of the places with a trendy beer scene, I mostly think of hip cities out West, … More Finding Your Bliss in Beer
One of my favorite people just got home last night after spending 3 months living in Africa. I’m sure that in many ways, she feels transformed by the incredible experience of living in such a different culture. But I know that at her core, she is the same powerful, loving, wise, spiritual, courageous woman and good friend who … More Change (Song for Denise)
I teach both middle school and high school group literature classes, and once a month I do a poetry unit with the students. While some of them are into it, others doubt the relevancy of poetry to their lives. I tell them that many times, particularly during events of high emotion or great significance, poets can … More Mending Wall
So if you weren’t invited to an Inaugural ball, why not have a ball instead? Because it look like after VAE is done with its love-in, they are hosting a laugh-in. Atlanta-born 35-year-old Lauren Gunderson is currently the most produced living American playwright. This award-winning author’s works are known for their wit, intelligence, and heart and … More The Power of Comedy
Do you know about the Nasty Women movement? It takes its name from Donald Trump’s comment during the third Presidential debate where he called Hillary Clinton “such a nasty woman.” On November 9, 2016 (the day after the election), New York artist Roxanne Jackson issued a call to action on her Facebook page that said: … More Spend January 20 With Some Nasty Women in Durham, NC
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