Sunday afternoon at the Royal Festival Hall promises something I’ve been craving – casual poetry conversation without formal structure. The London Poetry Meetup’s social event represents exactly what I need after months of workshops and readings.
What appeals most is the informality. No performance pressure, no critique circles, just writers talking about what they love. The setting next to the Poetry Library creates perfect atmosphere for browsing collections whilst chatting with fellow poets. Physical proximity to thousands of poetry volumes might spark conversations about influences or shared discoveries.
The organiser David welcomes newcomers, which suggests genuine community rather than exclusive literary clique. After experiencing so many structured events, the prospect of simply chatting about poetry feels refreshing.
They mention possibility of reading work for those who want to share, though background noise means it won’t be traditional recital setting. Perhaps that’s better – poetry shared conversationally rather than performed theatrically.
What draws me is curiosity about London’s poetry community outside academic contexts. The most valuable literary conversations often happen when nobody’s trying to impress anyone. Just writers gathered around shared appreciation for language, rhythm, meaning.
Sunday at South Bank represents chance to connect without agenda beyond mutual interest in poetry. Looking forward to discovering what emerges when poets simply gather to talk about their craft.
— Writer Anastasia Dubinina