For some time now, I have been a part of an inspiring poets who, though each living in a different part of the world, join regularly to share poems they love, and poems they have written (and would love to receive feedback on), and to engage in writing exercises. The host of this group, Elizabet Boquet, lives in Switzerland on Pernessy Street. We “met” through the NaPoWriMo challenge some Aprils ago. You might recall my mention of her debut collection, Galoshes.

In the early days of this year, Gwendolyn Soper, a US poet based in Utah, brought a prompt to our group which generate some interesting poems and no little excitement, and has resulted in a publication just out today. Here is how Liz Boquet describes it:

The idea for the #ParadiseProject was inspired by Gwendolyn Soper who tweeted a photo of one of the hand-written copies she’d made of Roger Robinson’s iconic poem, “A Portable Paradise,” (which she’d given as gifts to family). Mr. Robinson saw her tweet and replied, “You should write a poem based on it also. Use the framework and add in your own biographical details. Try it!!!”

Gwendolyn took his advice and wrote her own paradise poem. She ultimately guided participants in a Pernessy Poetry workshop through the same prom(pt). This collection is the result of that workshop.

Roger Robinson is an award-winning British writer, musician, and performer who divides his life between the UK and Trinidad. The collection has been shared with Roger Robinson and received his blessing. I am so happy to have been introduced to his poetry and his teaching this year, and also to have my own poem included in the collection.

If you would like to look at this brand-new publication, click HERE.

Wishing you a good start to the sweet month of June!

LESLIE