Assynt writer instrumental in setting up new Highland-wide poetry society
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An Assynt based writer has co-founded the Scottish Highlands and Islands Poetry Society (SHIPS), which is set to be launched publicly tomorrow, Saturday, November 18.
Mandy Haggith, a creative writing and literature lecturer at UHI Inverness, held the preliminary discussions in January to form the society.
It's aim is to bring together emerging and established poets from across the region to take part in online and in-person activities such as open mic readings, workshops, writing sessions and networking gatherings that will allow poets to get to know their peers and their work.
Dr Haggith, of Lochinver, a respected poet, novelist and non-fiction writer, said: "Poets in the Highlands and Islands are a powerful part of our culture. We need to come together and to welcome others into the wonderful world of poetry."
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Chairman of the society's steering group is Paul Shanks, a UHI Inverness literature and drama lecturer, and the society's poets include Andrea Turner, Cáit O'Neill McCullagh, Chris Powici, Donald S Murray, Ian Stephen and James Andrew.
Dr Shanks, a published poet who has helped facilitate several community-based writing initiatives in Inverness, said: "The steering group is currently planning a series of events that will both celebrate and nurture the diverse range of voices active in our region.
"We also want to encourage the reading and enjoyment of poetry. via activities and public events that bring people together and inspire them."
Tomorrow's launch comprises an online session, chaired by Dr Haggith, between 10am and 12pm. There will also be an in-person launch the same day at the mezzanine level of Waterstones book store in Inverness from 2.30pm-4.30pm.
The online event has proved so popular that all available slots have been filled. There is no need to book for the Waterstones launch.
The online session will begin with a short poetry reading in languages and dialects that reflect the cultural diversity of the region. Dr Haggith will talk about the society's ethos, aspirations, future plans and membership.
Lydia Harris, a poet from Orkney will speak about is online silent writing sessions and Nairn-based poet, James Andrew, will lead a 15-minute poetry writing workshop.
Cáit O'Neill MCullagh from Easter Ross will set out a planned series of online winter reads and open mics.
The online event will close with a workshop by Ardnamurchan and Cevannes-based poet Sharon Black.
At the Waterstones launch, poets will share work from their most recent publications and there will be special debuts of new works in progress.
