Book Launch

On Thursday evening, Feb. 13, I traveled with my family to the Cultural Center of Cape Cod for a magical evening of poetry and music. My husband, Greg, along with fellow musicians, Dinah Mellin and Denya LeVine, played as friends and poetry supporters gathered for the reading. The venue was a beautiful one with rooms filled with art and even a retired bank vault that was transformed into an indoor woodland scene, complete with twigs and branches. Folks sat at round tables and there were plenty of refreshments to go around.

The evening continued with members of the Steeple Street Poets reading one of my poems and one of their own poems. I enjoyed hearing my poems interpreted by my fellow poets, each in an original voice. When it was my turn to read, I stepped up to the podium and looked out at the crowd. My nerves melted away and I began to read. I was especially glad to see my sister, Cindy, sitting with my sons Ross and Devin. For twenty minutes, I chose poems that spoke to my heart and, hopefully, resonated with the people listening attentively in front of me. My poem “Gretel’s Complaint” met with some laughter at the end, so I was happy my audience was staying with me.

Afterwards, I introduced several poets who had just that day found out they were winners in the WOMR Outermost Poetry Contest. We heard from Judith Partelow, Lauren Wolk and Neil Silberblatt. Although I didn’t read my winning poem, I was happy to know I had won third prize in the contest (judged by Marge Piercy).

After the reading, people mingled, drank wine or sparkling water, and sought me out for a few words of greeting and congratulations. I also sold and signed some books. Although the night was rainy, windy and foggy, I was happy that my friends and family members had ventured out to share this special evening. Even the resident cat seemed to enjoy the festivities. It was truly a night to remember!