Literary Arts
"Poems are transmissions from the depths of whoever wrote them to the depths of the reader. To a greater extent than with any other kind of reading, the reader of a poem is making that poem, is inhabiting those words in the most personal sort of way. That doesn’t mean that you read a poem and make it whatever you want it to be, but that it’s operating so deeply in you, that it is the most special kind of reading."
-- Kay Ryan, Poet Laureate of the United States
Poetry, the most ancient of the literary arts, is thriving in the Yakima Valley! From our own Poetry Open Mic Nights to YVCC’s Black Box Poetry Slam to coffeehouse readings, from dozens of writers’ groups to numerous small presses, all around our region you’ll find devoted patrons of poems.
Allied Arts has a rich cultural tradition promoting poetry, dating from our first juried poetry competition in 1994, which is annually capped with a festive spring-time Coffeehouse Night to showcase the winners. We also offer classes in many aspects of writing, all geared to energize beginners as well as experienced wordsmiths.
There are so many ways for you to be part of this literary largesse! Click the boxes to the right to learn more about the programs that compose our poetry endeavors. And below, explore some resources to prime your poetic spirit!
Favorite Poem Project: Americans Saying Poems They Love
Americans of all ages and all walks of life sharing a poem (you can read along) and how it relates to their lives. http://www.favoritepoem.org/
Poetry 180
A collection of poems selected by former poet laureate Billy Collins intended to interest high school students in poetry but a good resource for anyone looking for an engaging anthology. http://www.loc.gov/poetry/180/
Poetry Matters Now
Hear poets reading (and sometimes singing) their work. http://poetrymattersnow.org/
Poetry at the Library of Congress
Poet Laureate info, award winning poets, all kinds of literary resources. http://www.loc.gov/poetry/