The first Dobunni Poetry Festival, held last week in Stroud, marked the town's return to poetry after 35 years. The festival opened with the launch of 'Flowers for Memory,' an anthology showcasing the work of local poets who have participated in Adam Horovitz's poetry classes at the Trinity Rooms.
Read More
The launch event took place at the Yard Gallery in Withey’s Yard, attracting a crowd that included many poets, the new mayor Louisa Stinton, and Stroud's MP, Simon Opher.
Edited by Adam Horovitz and published by Jason Conway's The Daydream Academy, 'Flowers for Memory' comprises 40 poems that capture various emotions, blending beauty with themes of nature and dance. The anthology presents an imaginative mix, where elements like Pleistocene megafauna invade contemporary settings.
Adam Horovitz expressed his excitement about compiling the poems, stating, "It was a pleasure to assemble these poems and make them sing together on the page." He emphasized the festival's intent to feature both emerging and established poets, and noted that the anthology aims to amplify new voices within the literary community.
With a history of involvement in poetry festivals since 1991, Horovitz and Conway have committed to donating all profits from 'Flowers for Memory' back into the festival fund for next year, supporting future creative endeavors. The anthology is priced at £10 and can be purchased at Borderless Books in Stroud or online at the Dobunni Poetry Festival's website. All proceeds will support the continuation of the festival.