Led by: Gary Roberts

Free

Learn about modern poetry with short poems from some of the most celebrated writers of the twentieth century. We’ll listen to or read the poems, share initial impressions, and discuss whatever questions or themes emerge. The texts will be provided at the meeting—no homework required!

This free salon-style series welcomes everyone—whether you’re well-versed in poetry or simply curious. Drop in for one session or all; each 90-minute meetup stands on its own. Prior experience with poetry will be helpful but isn’t required. An interest in innovative techniques, tolerance for ambiguity, and appreciation of different points of view will also be helpful.

Emphasis will be given to poets who bore witness to social upheaval and shaped modern literature with their responses to historical events. We will take a global perspective and include many writers in different languages who have been translated into English. Brief introductions to the poets will be offered, but no stuffy lectures; we’ll make connections and discoveries together through our sharing of questions and observations.

Hosted by Gary Roberts, a poet and co-founder of Arts Collaborative Medford, as part of our literary arts initiative. Bring your coffee, tea, or notebook and join us for a relaxed, open conversation about how poetry can reflect, resist, and reimagine the world around us.

Registration is requested, but not required.