Week 7 of our Summer wellbeing programme brought us together again at the Town Hall for a creative and inspiring poetry session, led by our wonderful volunteers Cynthia and Robyn, with support from Sharon, Anne-Marie and Leo.
Cynthia began the session by reading ‘To Find a Poem’ by Robert Fisher, introducing the magical and playful nature of poetry. The poem encouraged everyone to see poetry as something accessible and, most importantly, something we could all have fun with.
Robyn followed with ‘Hand on the Bridge’ by Michael Rosen. With its easy rhythm and accompanying actions, the poem was a great way to get everyone involved. Participants read the poem aloud together, talked about the words and lines they enjoyed, and shared the parts they found less clear. Everyone had plenty of encouragement and opportunities to contribute.
The second poem, ‘Stream of Life’ by Rabindranath Tagore, offered a quieter moment for reflection. Cynthia read it slowly, giving everyone time to listen, think and discuss. The poem introduced some new vocabulary, which the group explored together, while also opening up a conversation about how poems can have different meanings for different people. This was a lovely opportunity to explore why poetry can be so meaningful and beautiful.
After a short break, it was time for the participants to become poets themselves!
Cynthia brought along a selection of photographs showing landscapes, animals and people, giving everyone inspiration for their own writing. She also read out ‘The Colours’ by Mary O’Neill, helping the participants think about how choosing a theme can provide a starting point for creating a poem. Participants were then able to work one-to-one with a volunteer to develop their ideas and put their own words onto paper.
To finish the session, everyone was invited to read their poem aloud – a very special and moving moment.
A huge thank you to Cynthia, Robyn, Sharon, Anne-Marie and Leo for creating such a warm, encouraging and imaginative session – and to all the participants who shared their words and showed us just how much magic can be found in poetry. Yousra, Shahla and Alina are happy for us to share their poems with you.
