The Poetry of Birds Workshop

THE POETRY OF BIRDS WORKSHOP –

Coming April 2024

In this indoor and outdoor workshop, Dr Mary Montague explores the deep relationship between birds and poetry. We will look at our rich tradition of avian poetry across a range of species to explore the myriad ways birds have inspired us since ancient times. We will also reflect on how the poetry of birds can be a guide in the contemporary ecological crisis and its invitation to care for creation. As well as taking the time to enjoy poems about birds, we will also ramble out of doors to watch local species and refresh our experience of poetry. Come and let your imagination take flight!

The workshop is designed as a taster for people who may have some interest in birds and poetry and want to explore in more depth. But experience is not necessary. It is meant to be an introduction.

BRING: Binoculars can be brought or they can be borrowed at Jubilee Farm; a notebook for recording birds (and own thoughts) if desired. Suitable footwear and coat/sun cream/hat, depending on the weather.

BIOGRAPHY

Dr Mary Montague is a biologist by background, with a PhD in ornithology. She works as freelance writer and facilitator for various arts and community organisations, including The Crescent Arts Centre, Belfast. She also works as an Open Learning tutor for Queen’s University. Mary’s poetry collections are Tribe (Dedalus 2008) and Black Wolf  on a White Plain (Summer Palace 2001). Her poems have been included in number of anthologies, e.g. The Word Ark: a Pocket Book of Animal Poems (Dedalus Press, 2020) and have been translated into French, Italian, Russian and German. She contributes to The Guardian’s (London) “Country Diary”.

The workshop will be funded & free for you to attend by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.