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The Many-Languages Poetry Club opens again for new term

White pillow with lots of writing on it
  • Written byStudent Communications
  • Published date 03 October 2022
White pillow with lots of writing on it
Mengxue Bai, 2020 MA Design for Art Direction, London College of Communication, UAL | Photography: University of the Arts London

From 19 October, UAL's Many-Languages Poetry Club will be open again for all UAL students (Foundation, Undergraduate and Postgraduate) and take place on Wednesdays on a fortnightly basis.

Here's everything you need to know to take part:

What is the Many-Languages Poetry Club?

The Many-Languages Poetry Club explores the power and beauty of language in all its poetic forms. This could be rhyming or free verse, song lyrics, concrete poetry, performance poetry, poetry-film, narrative poetry... anything!

Students can bring any poetry to share - including their own work. All languages and literary traditions are welcome.

Most of our activity will continue to be online, with some in-person events if there is enough interest. The club's core is our Teams page, where we post updates, resources, comments and discussions and indeed anything of interest that's poetry-related; and our online gatherings, which are held on Collaborate. Please email Karen at k.harris@arts.ac.uk to receive the Collaborate link and join the Teams page.

What happens at the online gatherings?

Students start by exploring a "theme of the day", followed by an open mic part which doesn't have to connect with the theme. No booking required – all students who come along will be very welcome!

Open mic can get very popular. If you would like a guaranteed slot for reading your poem, you can email k.harris@arts.ac.uk to ensure you get time to present.

When is it taking place?

The club’s online gatherings will normally be once a fortnight, held on alternate Wednesdays, 5.30pm – 6.45pm.

Please check the club’s Teams posts for updates regarding the schedule and information on extra activities.

The schedule for the autumn term is:

  • 19 October
  • 2 November
  • 16 November
  • 30 November
  • w/c 5 December (date to be confirmed)

After the Christmas break, gatherings will resume in January (exact date to be confirmed) and will continue until late February or early March. However, the club’s Teams page will remain open throughout the academic year.

Is there any commitment?

There is no commitment required; this is a very flexible club and students may be involved as much or as little as they wish.

Some people are keen to read at the open mic slots, while others prefer just to listen quietly. Comments are always welcome: students can speak aloud, use the chat box, or simply be a supportive audience member.

Students can also come to gatherings even if they haven't joined the Teams group. However, joining the group is recommended to ensure you get all the extra benefits of being part of the community, including up-to-date scheduling info.

Get in touch with Karen at k.harris@arts.ac.uk to join the Teams group or ask any other questions about the Many-Languages Poetry Club.