SEPT — DEC 2015
AUTUMN PRºGRAMMe
THE CREATIVE UNCONSCIOUS: PSYCHOANALYTIC POETRY POP-UP
OPEn ThE DOORS! LIGHT OF THE DAY, SHINE IN LIGHT OF THE MIND ShINE OUT
WE HAVE A BUILDING WHICH IS MORE THAN A BUILDING - Edwin Morgan -
Sunday 20 September The Sutton Gallery Full day ticket (includes lunch and snacks): £25/£20 Interview only ticket: £5/£4 Reading only ticket: £5/£4
11.30 - 18.00
in partnership with the Sutton Gallery and the Poetry Society
‘He wasn’t clever at all: he merely told / the unhappy Present to recite the Past / like a poetry lesson’ (‘In Memory of Sigmund Freud’, W.H. Auden). Psychoanalysis and poetry have long been mutually fascinated. In this day-long event, poet and psychoanalyst Nuar Alsadir is interviewed by psychoanalyst Ken Robinson and reads her delicate, mysterious poems, while there is an opportunity to take part in a workshop led by the SPL’s J.L. Williams on writing from the unconscious. 11.30 - 12.30 Ken Robinson interviews Nuar Alsadir about poetry and the unconscious
Edwin Morgan’s words, written for the opening of the Scottish Parliament, our neighbours, ring true for this Autumn Programme, in which we’re delighted to welcome you back to our new and improved Scottish Poetry Library. ‘Opening the Doors’ is the theme: we’re excited about showing off the extensive building renovations which will enable us to meet the challenges of the 21st century and to continue delivering a multitude of services long into the future. This season, too, we’re so lucky to have a host of poets sharing their work over the coming months, not only from around Scotland but also visiting from around the world. So it’s a warm welcome to everyone. We would love to see you at our events – do come in to have a look round any time... the doors are open! - Jennifer Williams Programme Manager, SPL
13.00 - 14.00 Lunch 14.00 - 16.00 Poetry workshop 16.00 - 17.00 Tea/snacks 17.00 - 18.00 Reading by Nuar Alsadir
CAESURA Thursday 24 September
Saltire Society
18.30
£5/£4
Celebrated as ‘one of the most vital avant garde readings in Great Britain’, CAESURA is the live home for sound poetry, found poetry, performance art and innovation. Poetry will never be the same again! Performers include: Michael Farrell, Jane Goldman, Gavin Selerie, Frances Presley and Iain Morrison.
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FROM RENAISSANCE TO REFERENDUM: THE SCOTTISH RENAISSANCE AND THE ORIGINS OF SCOTTISH NATIONALISM Thursday 1 October
Saltire Society
18.30
Free
in partnership with the British Academy and the University of Edinburgh
From Renaissance to Referendum tells the story of modern Scottish poetry. Over six events in 2015 and 2016, academics and poets trace the changes in Scottish culture since the end of WWII through its poetry. We begin with Margery Palmer McCulloch (University of Glasgow) and Alex Thomson (University of Edinburgh) considering Hugh MacDiarmid as the controversial key figure in a movement that sought to reinvigorate Scottish nationalism by embracing modernism.
MY LIFE IN POETRY WITH CHRISTINE DE LUCA Wednesday 14 October
THE PERFECT HOUR Tuesday 13 October
SPL
14.00
£3/£2
in partnership with the National Library of Scotland
A year ago Edinburgh’s Makar Christine De Luca provided a note of calm amidst the passions of the Independence Referendum debate with her conciliatory poem ‘The Morning After’. For My Life in Poetry, De Luca tells the story of her life through poems precious to her, in conversation with Scottish Poetry Library Director Robyn Marsack.
LES MURRAY Thursday 15 October
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National Library of Scotland
CCA, Glasgow
19.00
£5
in partnership with St Mungo’s Mirrorball
18.00
Free
in partnership with the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures, University of Edinburgh
We are celebrating the publication of The Perfect Hour, selected poems by Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen (one of the best-known and most loved of modern Portuguese poets), translated from the Portuguese by Colin Rorrison with Margaret Jull Costa (Cold Hub Press, 2015). Having studied Spanish and Portuguese at the University of Edinburgh, Colin Rorrison was on his first visit to Latin America in 2012 when he died suddenly, aged 28, leaving a sheaf of translations. The event will include a short reading and conversation with the renowned translator Margaret Jull Costa, who worked with him on these poems.
One of the leading Australian poets of his generation, Les Murray reads from his new collection Waiting for the Past (Carcanet). Winner of numerous literary awards, including the T.S. Eliot Prize (1996), he was awarded the Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry in 1999 on the recommendation of Ted Hughes. His career spans over forty years and he has published nearly 30 volumes of poetry as well as two verse novels and collections of his prose writings. Free for St Mungo’s Mirrorball Members.
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SECOND WIND Thursday 15 October
Saltire Society
FROM RENAISSANCE TO REFERENDUM: THE LANGUAGES OF SCOTTISH POETRY 18.30
Free
part of the Luminate Festival and the Baring Foundation’s ‘Late Style’ series of artists’ commissions, organised in partnership with the Saltire Society
This event is free but booking is essential.
TRANSATLANTIC POETRY WITH DAVID WHEATLEY AND STEPHEN BURT Saturday 17 October
Online
20.00
SPL
18.30
Free
in partnership with the British Academy and the University of Edinburgh
Second Wind, a Saltire Society pamphlet commissioned by the Scottish Poetry Library, brings together three award-winning poets; Douglas Dunn, Vicki Feaver and Diana Hendry. With humour, melancholy and wisdom, they tackle what a person loses as he or she ages – and what they gain. Join the three poets for a reading and discussion of their latest work.
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Thursday 22 October
Down the ages Gaelic poets have often acted as spokespeople for their community, particularly during times of hardship and struggle. Emma Dymock (University of Edinburgh) considers how Sorley MacLean reinvented the role of ‘poet of conscience’ in the 1930s and 1940s. Greg Thomas (University of Edinburgh) discusses Ian Hamilton Finlay’s 1970s-80s poetry, focusing on his new and challenging interest in the artistic and intellectual tenets of authoritarian political regimes during those decades.
RITA DOVE: HOW DOES A SHADOW SHINE? POETRY, MUSIC & THE UNDERSIDE OF HISTORY Free
You don’t have to leave your sofa to enjoy poetry from around the world. All you need is a laptop, tablet or phone and internet connection to tune into live readings that bring together poets based in Britain and America. This October’s pairing teams Aberdeen-based poet and critic David Wheatley with Harvard professor and poet Stephen Burt. For the live video on 17 October, please visit: www.transatlanticpoetry.com.
Friday 23 October
University of Edinburgh
18.30
Free
in partnership with the University of Edinburgh and the Poetry Society, in association with Birmingham Literature Festival and Writing West Midlands
Rita Dove was the first African American US Poet Laureate, and the youngest, serving from 1993-95. She received the 2011 National Medal of Arts from President Obama and the 1996 National Humanities Medal from President Clinton, making her the only poet to have received both presidential medals. Coinciding with Black History Month, her lecture will explore how poetry can pull lives from the shadows and takes as its starting point what might have remained a footnote in musical history – the fact that Beethoven’s Kreutzer Sonata was originally titled ‘Sonata Mulattica’, and composed in honour of a now-forgotten musical wunderkind, a ‘mulatto’ virtuoso violinist called George Bridgetower. This event is at the University of Edinburgh, 50 George Square, Screening Room G.04.
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SECOND WIND IN ABERDEEN Monday 26 October
Aberdeen Maritime Museum
18.00
Free
part of the Luminate Festival and the Baring Foundation’s ‘Late Style’ series of artists’ commissions, organised in partnership with the Saltire Society
Another chance to hear our three award-winning poets – Douglas Dunn, Vicki Feaver and Diana Hendry, in a more northern setting. Join the three poets for readings from their new Saltire Society pamphlet and discussion of their latest work. This event is free but booking is essential.
MICHAEL KRÜGER
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Tuesday 27 October
Goethe-Institut
18.30
Free
part of the Luminate Festival, presented in association with the Goethe-Institut Glasgow The poet Stanley Moss said of Michael Krüger, ‘He gives us a world exploding with memories, a flood, an Ark’. The award-winning German poet visits Scotland to read from his latest translated collections, and talk about his life as a poet and publisher. This event is at the Goethe-Institut, 3 Park Circus, Glasgow.
AND YET THERE
WAS ALWAYS MoRE
OF ThE SAME, ALL THAT HAPPINESS, THE AIMLESSD BEiNg ThErE. - Rita Dove -
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TRANSLATION WORKSHOP: RUSSIA Thursday 29 October
SPL - The Space
18.00 - 20.00
G.S. FRASER: SHOESTRING PRESS LAUNCH £5/£4
Poet and translator Rose France will provide poems in Russian with literal translations. We will make our own English translations from these ‘bridge’ versions, with Rose’s help, sharing the results and discussing the process. You will gain insights into Russian language and poetry, as well as the exciting and challenging world of poetry translation. You do not need to speak/read Russian or to have translated previously to attend this event, although those with experience in these areas are welcome.
FROM RENAISSANCE TO REFERENDUM: CONTEMPORARY SCOTTISH POETRY AND ECOLOGY Thursday 12 November
8
SPL
18.30
Free
in partnership with the British Academy and the University of Edinburgh
Man’s relationship with the natural world has been a constant preoccupation of Scottish poetry. In our third From Renaissance to Referendum event, we take a close look at Scottish nature writing over the past century, from Nan Shepherd to Kathleen Jamie, in the company of David Farrier (University of Edinburgh) and Samantha Walton (Bath Spa University).
Thursday 19 November
SPL
18.30
Free
'This is the shape of a land that outlasts a strategy / And is not taken with rhetoric or arms.’ So wrote the poet and critic, G.S. Fraser (1915-1980), of Aberdeen, the city where he spent part of his childhood. Poems by Fraser, who studied at the University of St Andrews and became, briefly, a journalist in Glasgow, are to be found in most major anthologies of 20th century poetry, and especially in anthologies of the Second World War. In post-war years Fraser became one of the most prominent critics of his day. To mark the centenary of his birth Shoestring Press is publishing a selection of Fraser’s poems.
CINNAMON POETS LAUNCH Saturday 28 November
SPL
13.30
Free
Cinnamon Press recently celebrated ten years as an independent publisher. What better way to mark their next decade than the launch of five new titles? Join us as we welcome to the library A.C. Clarke, Mavis Gulliver, Jane McKie, David Mark Williams and Robin Lindsay Wilson.
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EVENTS IN THE SPACE
POETRYFILM AND ROXANA VILK Thursday 3 December
SPL
18.30
£5/£4
Enjoy a curated selection of short film artworks, chosen for their alignment with poetic structures and experiences, and with the visual, verbal and aural languages of poetry in various forms introduced by Zata Banks, Director of PoetryFilm, plus a new short film by Roxana Vilk. Awardwinning British-Iranian filmmaker Vilk has over the past few years made films about poets from both Britain and the Middle East, not least her acclaimed Poets of Protest series made for Al-Jazeera in 2012. PoetryFilm is the influential research art project founded by Zata Banks in 2002, to explore and exhibit experimental text / image / sound material.
The Space is our new room in the Library where anything can happen. All events other than Collective Hush are ticketed. NOTHING BUT THE POEM 11.00 - 12.30; 14.00 - 15.30 (repeat session) 10 October
SPL
£5/£4
Rita Dove
7 November Second Wind: poems by Douglas Dunn, Vicki Feaver, Diana Hendry 5 December Marina Tsvetaeva Two Nothing But the Poem poetry reading sessions on each Saturday with poet Kate Hendry. We will read and talk about a selection of poems by the poet(s). Please note: the poets being discussed will be there in print only!
EXHIBITION
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THE SHOCK OF VICTORY
NOTHING BUT THE POEM: STANISŁAW BARAŃCZAK
Alec Finlay, In the Shadow of the Hand, Mairéad McClean, Antonis Pittas and Oraib Toukan Saturday 19 September - Sunday 1 November CCA, Glasgow Tuesday - Saturday: 11.00 - 18.00 // Sunday: 12.00 - 18.00 Preview: Friday 18 September 19.00
Free
The Shock of Victory is a programme of ‘artistic approaches, techniques, provocations and motivations in a post-referendum reality departing from Scotland, but certainly not confined to it.’ It includes Alec Finlay’s a better tale to tell, a found poem composed entirely from public responses to the Smith Commission, allowing multiple voices to engage in a complex discourse. The poem, exhibited at the CCA and also available in print and as an e-book, is co-published by the CCA, the National Library of Scotland, the Saltire Society and the Scottish Poetry Library.
Saturday 31 October
SPL
14.00
Free
In this special Nothing But the Poem in partnership with the Polish Book Club, Robyn Marsack will host a discussion of some poems by Stanisław Barańczak. The discussion will be in English, with Polish and English texts available.
SPL POETRY WORKSHOP Tuesdays 20/10, 24/11
SPL
18.00 - 20.00
£5/£4
J.L. Williams, poet (and SPL Programme Manager), facilitates this poetry writing workshop in which we will write, read and discuss poems. Please bring paper and a pen or pencil, or laptop/tablet of choice.
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EVENTS IN THE SPACE POETRY FOR PEANUTS 4 November, 2 December
SPL
10.30 - 11.30
£2 Per Family
Pop in for this family poetry hour, once a month on Wednesdays. These sessions are for wee ones and their grown-ups. We’ll supply the poetry books, tea and coffee. Share some poems with your children and meet other parents/carers who like poetry or want to give it a try.
LOOKINg BACK,
Perfect for ages 5 and under.
THE GLISTENING LEAF IS STILL
MOVING.
COLLECTIVE HUSH Fridays beginning 6 November
12.00 - 14.00
Free, donations welcome
Keep meaning to put some time aside for reading and writing poetry each week? Bring your lunch if you like and join us for this silent, drop-in group reading/writing/making time every Friday in The Space. Sharing this silence, everyone can work together to achieve their artistic and poetic goals.
POETRY SHOP - Les Murray -
17.30 - 19.00
SPL
£3/£2
Tuesday 3 November Publishing in Magazines Tuesday 1 December Poetry Criticism We’re opening up Poetry Shop: a series of regular events in which we’ll discuss topics that matter to poets such as where to send your work, how to put a manuscript together, how to read, write and publish poetry criticism and much more. Each session will focus on a particular topic, and the aim is for knowledge-sharing and community-building between the poets who attend.
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EDUCATION
LEARNING We offer Poetry CPD for teachers and workshops for pupils tailored specifically to suit requirements. Contact our Learning Manager, Georgi Gill, for more information and to book: georgi.gill@spl.org.uk. For teachers: www.scottishpoetrylibrary.org.uk/learn/teachers Education Blog: makingmakars.wordpress.com
The Scottish Poetry Library has a ground-floor entrance and a lift that provides access to all three floors of the building. There is one adapted toilet on the basement floor.
Companion Service Artlink offers a companion service for people who have difficulty visiting libraries and attending events on their own. For more information please phone 0131 229 3555, type talk 18001 0131 229 3555 or go to artlinkedinburgh.co.uk. If you need a companion to help you attend any SPL workshops or events, please let us know when booking. Your companion’s ticket will be free.
I dA sImmIR dIM, sungAets,
we MARk dA RIm
ACCESS
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A year Is come rICht ROOnd.
At the Library Hearing loop: If you require our portable loop, please let the person at reception know. Wheelchair Space: We can reserve space for you and nearby seats for your guests if required. Guide and hearing dogs are welcome.
If you would like to use any of these services, contact the SPL reception on 0131 557 2876, reception@spl.org.uk or in person. Please then make yourself known to Reception on arrival.
o dA BROCh – tIme CIRCles:
walk dA mAIRCHes o A twalmONt gIen.
- Christine De Luca -
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SUPPORT US Help us to continue our work by becoming a Friend of the Scottish Poetry Library from £20 per year and you will receive the following membership benefits: •• •• •• •• ••
Poetry Reader magazine subscription Discounts on SPL events 10% discount in the SPL shop Free postal borrowing throughout the UK Voting rights at our AGM
Visit our website for more information and to join online or telephone 0131 557 2876 to request a membership form by post.
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Many of our events will include a donation bar, where you can get a drink in exchange for a suggested donation. Donations to the SPL are always welcome, especially at our free events.
FURTHER DETAILS, TICKETS & THANKS Please go to scottishpoetrylibrary.eventbrite.co.uk for event booking. Friends of the SPL receive the concession rate for events and workshops. For more details on events, directions to the Library and information about Library services, podcasts and poetry, please see scottishpoetrylibrary. org.uk or call us on 0131 557 2876. For updates on events inside and outside of the SPL, as well as links to our latest podcasts and blogs, subscribe to the SPL’s fortnightly e-newsletter by emailing colin.waters@spl.org.uk. Thank you to our Patrons – The Binks Trust, Edwin Morgan Trust, Dr David Summers Charitable Trust, Professor Alexander McCall Smith, Nora Senior and Ian Wall – and Friends, partners and sponsors for their generous support.
SEPTEMBER Sun 20
The Creative Unconscious
The Sutton Gallery
Thu 24
CAESURA
Saltire Society
OCTOBER Thu 1
Scottish Renaissance and Scottish Nationalism
Saltire Society
Sat 10
NBTP: Rita Dove
SPL
Tue 13
The Perfect Hour book launch
SPL
Wed 14
My Life in Poetry with Christine De Luca
National Library of Scotland
Thu 15
Second Wind pamphlet launch
Saltire Society
Thu 15
Les Murray
CCA, Glasgow
Sat 17
Transatlantic Poetry
Online
Tue 20
SPL Poetry Workshop
SPL
Thu 22
The Languages Of Scottish Poetry
SPL
Fri 23
Rita Dove
University of Edinburgh
Mon 26
Second Wind in Aberdeen
Aberdeen Maritime Museum
Tue 27
Michael Krüger
Goethe-Institut Glasgow
Thu 29
Translation Workshop: Russia
SPL
Sat 31
NBTP: Stanisław Barańczak
SPL
NOVEMBER Tue 3
Poetry Shop: publishing in magazines
SPL
Wed 4
Poetry for Peanuts
SPL
Sat 7
NBTP: Second Wind
SPL
Thu 12
Contemporary Scottish Poetry and Ecology
SPL
Thu 19
G.S. Fraser: Shoestring Press launch
SPL
Tue 24
SPL Poetry Workshop
SPL
Sat 28
Cinnamon Poets launch
SPL
DECEMBER Tue 1
Poetry Shop: criticism
SPL
Wed 2
Poetry for Peanuts
SPL
Thu 3
PoetryFilm and Roxana Vilk
SPL
Sat 5
NBTP: Marina Tsvetaeva
SPL
…and Collective Hush from 6 November on Fridays throughout the season.
ROYAL MILE
People’s Canongate Kirk Story
CANONGATE
Museum Of Edinburgh
CRICHTON’S CLOSE
OLD TOLBOOTH WYND
NEW STREET
JEFFYREY STREET ST MARYS STREET
to Castle
Scottish Poetry Library, 5 Crichton’s Close, Canongate Edinburgh, EH8 8DT.
to Holyrood
Hemma
Scottish Parliament
HOLYROOD ROAD
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reception@spl.org.uk This programme is printed in Scotland. 0131 557 2876 Please pass on or recycle when finished. www.scottishpoetrylibrary.org.uk The SPL is a certified Green Arts Venue. @ByLeavesWeLive facebook.com/scottishpoetrylibrary
Design: www.everyonelovescake.co.uk
AVAILABLE IN LARGE PRINT