I woke up yesterday morning thinking about National Poetry Day, which is next Thursday 3rd October. I’m going to a reading the night before, but had nothing planned for the day itself, and wasn’t aware of anything happening locally. And then I thought why don’t I do something myself? Something that wouldn’t take too much organising at short notice, something local, informal.

There’s a lovely cafe that opened on the estate a couple of years ago, with an upstairs room which I’ve often thought would be a good space for a reading or workshop. Maybe they’d be up for hosting an informal poetry reading? I did my best to dampen the chattering doubts and nerves, and after lunch I popped into Vibes Cafe and put my embryonic idea to Chauntelle, one of the managers: an hour in the afternoon, I’d read some of my own poetry, plus other poems relating to ‘truth’ (this year’s NPD theme), and invite people to bring and share a poem they’ve written or a favourite poem. Chauntelle said yes!

So now I’m committed, and mostly excited, and nervous of course. I’ve made a poster and started sharing details on social media. I’ve no idea how many people will turn up – it may just be me and my latte. But it’s worth a punt. If you’re nearby on the day, please do drop by!

When: Thursday 3rd October, 4:00-5:00pm
Where: Upstairs at Vibes Cafe, 293 Battersea Park Road, London SW11 4LX
Bring a poem you’ve written or a favourite poem to share, or simply sit and listen!