A night of exceptional poetry at Dolly’s on 20 November 2018
The tinder was laid so carefully. First, Toby Keane’s perfectly chosen words – exceptional writing to open an exceptional event. Two poets inspired by works of art followed, MJ Oliver and Peter Gillies. These writers, like others present, gave so much of themselves, bringing along images of paintings, art books, books of poetry. Perhaps it was the generosity and openess of our writers which made the night particularly special.
Johanna Egar took to the floor and delivered her excellent poems with great clarity and presence. Tom Scott, the last of our speakers before the interval, warmed us with poems in praise of writers and explored, with naive humour, the dream of being an English writer overseas, ‘romantically enigmatic’ perhaps.
We returned, gin-fuelled, and Sylvia Vacher regaled us with a finely judged performance of Will you take me to your dacha, Sacha?, her low voice full of promise and shadows. The moment had arrived and everyone knew there was nowhere else they’d rather be. The touchpaper had been lit. Henry Purbrick followed; he may be the first person to have considered the resurrection of Lazarus from the point of view of Lazarus’ wife. Ian Watkiss transported us with his soaring and beautiful urban Evening Song, performed from memory. Bridie Toft brought the evening to a close with poems which were both personal and universal. A couple in a cafe planning their day. A child speaking Spanglish to the local cats on holiday. St Michael’s Mount – the scene set for a murmuration.
Thank you to all our writers and to those who came to hear them and be warmed by the flames. There will be more chances to read at Telltales in 2019 with our first event planned for 29 January. The theme for the night will be Darkness and Light.
