Meredith Wattison on The Gentle Art of Poetry
As in my poem, And My Pink Ashes, responding to W.A.G.'s 2023 'thinking through pink' exhibition connected to S.C.W.C.'s poetry prize theme 'in colour', extending to aspects of gender diversity and stereotype and politics, while focusing on the presence and legacy of DH Lawrence (its 'elective mute Ada' reflects his reputed 'few words', barely speaking during weekly beard trims at the barber, when staying in Craig Street, Thirroul, while writing Kangaroo) and Brett Whiteley, my approach to my January 20th 'The Gentle Art of Poetry' workshop came out of the spirit of generosity and gratitude in regard to Ron Pretty, who passed last year, and his vital and unstinting contribution to Australian poetry, both as poet and publisher of Five Islands Press, established in 1986, which produced over 230 books (including my 3rd and 4th, in 2001 and 2003). Ron handed over the baton in 2007. I fondly remember a golden cheesy ring around each of my children's fingertips at the familiar bowl of Cheezels at Ron's/F.I.P.'s launches. And Ron's pet hate of Word's incessant capitalisation at each new line of proofs. In regard to Ian Gentle's work, echoing both Leunig and the Corona virus model (his Dancing Turtle; prominently displayed on the poster outside the W.A.G.), I devised the 'found object/found word' 'found poem' exercise (incorporating the original work (article) by Gina Fairley, Horny Sticks And Whispering Lines in World Sculpture News, Spring 2009, (Gentle's quoted 'bonsai lantana' inspired), stressing acknowledgement to participants) in regard to the work practice of Gentle, including various examples of approach and the art of response. Our palates cleansed by, perhaps the most well- known 'found poem', This Is Just To Say, by William Carlos Williams, (previously his luscious marital note of apology). I wish the participants the same such refreshment should they wish to consider writing an entry for this year's S.C.W.C poetry prize's theme, 'gentle'.
— Meredith Wattison, winner of the 2023 SCWC Poetry Award and workshop facilitator for the Gentle Art of Poetry
Enter the 2024 SCWC Poetry Award – submissions close 5 March
