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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251013T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251013T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250801T194144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250801T194144Z
UID:11302-1760382000-1760387400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Getting Started with Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTell us you’re coming by booking your free ticket here. \nThe Oxford Poetry Library is an accessible space but please do contact us in advance if you have specific requirements. You can email us about this or with any questions about the workshop at oxfordpoetrylibary@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/getting-started-with-poetry-33/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251017T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251017T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250919T091120Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250919T091120Z
UID:11736-1760729400-1760738400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Poetry Bake Off
DESCRIPTION:Join us on October 17 at 7.30pm in The Community Works for a live poetry event like no other! \nPoetry Bake Off spreads the plum jam of Poetry into Bake Off’s tiered sponge. Five poets go head to head over three rounds: Signature\, Technical & Showstopper. \nWill their words on the page rise to the challenge?\nWill their formal skill be worthy of a handshake?\nWill their performances reveal a soggy bottom? \nYour hosts Tina Sederholm and Andy Melhuish will be mixing up the fun and keeping your ovens hot. Featuring stars of the poetry world – special guest judges Vanessa Lampert and Glyn Maxwell as our very own Prue and Paul. \nAdvance booking is essential and tickets are £10 (£5 concessions) – please book your places here. \nJoin us for the most delicious poetry event of the year! \n*please note: no actual baking will take place* \n\n 
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/poetry-bake-off/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Poetry-Bake-Off-Flyer1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251018T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251018T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250603T141313Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250921T105434Z
UID:10730-1760796000-1760803200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Reading Circle
DESCRIPTION:People who never read poetry don’t write poems that are worth reading – Wendy Cope \n  \nIf you’re keen to find a way in to reading and appreciating poetry\, discover new writing\, and open your mind to the world of poetry\, welcome to The Reading Circle. Come to OPL’s poetry reading group where we’ll share and discuss contemporary poems (and occasionally poems from the late 20th century) in a relaxed and inclusive peer-led environment. \n  \nQuestions we’ll be asking include: \nWhat makes a poem ‘work’?  \nWhy do we like a poem? Why don’t we?  \nIs there such a thing as a fashionable poem? Does it matter?  \nCan we love a poem we don’t fully understand? What makes mystery different to obscurity?  \nWhat might we learn from other poets that can help us enrich our own craft? \n  \nThe Reading Circle meets on the third Saturday of each month\, 2-4 pm in The Community Works. \nWe suggest a donation to attend each session: £5 for general admission (£10 for those able to donate a bit more) and registration is required here. Donations are optional and shouldn’t be prohibitive to you attending\, but all proceeds go to the running costs of the Oxford Poetry Library and our ability to continue providing these sorts of sessions. If you aren’t able to come on the day\, please do cancel your booking on Eventbrite\, to free up space for others. \nThis month’s group will be facilitated by the established writers (and prolific readers) Carl Tomlinson and Vanessa Lampert. \n  \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-reading-circle-17/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2025-Reading-Circle.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251020T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251020T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250102T160314Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250102T160314Z
UID:8890-1760988600-1760995800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT Reading Group- October Session
DESCRIPTION:Got started with poetry but not sure where to go next?  Need some support and feedback for a specific piece of writing that is bugging you right now? Just looking for a friendly\, low-pressure space to hang out and chat with folks who love words as much as you do? \nWhy not join us at LIT? \nWe are a reading and writing group for cis and trans women\, trans men\, non-binary people\, and people of other minority genders to share their own work and the work of others. We take the broadest\, most inclusive interpretation of what this means- if you feel like you might fit with us\, you probably do! \nWe are a group of writers who host monthly friendly sessions around different themes. We meet in person and online. \nFor more information about us\, you can read our statement of aims and values on our group page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/223789834941256 or email francesca_moll@hotmail.co.uk to request to join our WhatsApp group. \nThis is the event for our October online session. There’s no need to book or buy tickets- feel free just to join us on the zoom link here:\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/85006693701?pwd=TzJpeTBRZGdudlBQTlM0OWJQcVZxdz09
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/lit-reading-group-october-session/
CATEGORIES:Activities To Do,LGBTQAI+,online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/LIT-group-pic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251024T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251024T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20251007T184106Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T184106Z
UID:11912-1761312600-1761319800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nWrite Space is a pop-up space for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. Come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm fortnightly on Fridays \nWhere is it?\nThe Event Space at the Community Works\, Park End Street (access through Lula’s). \nWho is it for?\nWriting can be a lonely business and sometimes it can be hard to protect time for yourself to write when life weighs in. Write Space is for anyone writing creatively (poetry\, fiction\, drama\, creative non-fiction…) who values this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nBook your spot in advance via the Eventbrite link below – any donation is welcome from 1p to £££s to support the work of Oxford Poetry Library. \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nIt’s up to you! There is a writing prompt available at the start for those who wish\, or you can settle straight into your own project. We take a short break half -way to chat about what you’re working on\, discuss an aspect of writing life or just stretch your legs and grab a drink. \nWhat should I bring?\nBring what you’re working on and what you like to write on/ with. Bring your own drink or buy one at Lula’s.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-16/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251025T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251025T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250314T123100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250919T143009Z
UID:9687-1761400800-1761406200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:What's that Sound?: An Experimental Workshop on Poetry and Noise
DESCRIPTION:If your poetry was a noise what would it be? On a typical day which noises make themselves known? Are there certain sounds that remind you of home? \nJoin us\, makers Raina\, Holly and Gael for an afternoon workshop at the Oxford Poetry Library on October 25th at 2pm and explore using voice\, body\, and everyday objects to create alive soundscapes to well-loved poems. \nClapping\, humming\, drumming on tables\, violin bows in places they’ve never been before. No musical experience is required! Various noise-making instruments are provided or you’re welcome to bring your own. Through this hour and a half session\, we will lead you through a mix of smaller group exercises aimed to help you experiment with language and poetry. We will look at some of our favourite poetry & music mash ups (Milkweed\, Malaika Kegode and Dizraeli) and use those to guide your work in a fun and dynamic approach. \nExpect a warm and silly space to share guttural calls and whimsical noises. Bring your comfiest self and be ready to make some sounds! \nThis workshop is free but booking ahead is advised here. \nThis workshop is in parallel with the spoken word and sea-shanty show Resusci Anne\, performed and written by Raina Greifer\, Holly Moberley and Gael Showler which will be performed at the Oxford Poetry Library later in the evening. Full information and tickets for that event here. \nOxford Poetry Library’s building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/resusci-anne-workshop/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/1000053149.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251025T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251025T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250314T123139Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250926T143454Z
UID:9689-1761418800-1761429600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Resusci-Anne (and the Personal Displays of Affection)
DESCRIPTION:Join us on 25 October at 7pm for an exclusive production of Resusci-Anne\, an evening of theatre\, poetry\, and sea-shanties! This event will be taking place at the brand new venue\, The Nest (run by YWMP). Find us at 33-35 Little Clarendon St\, OX1 1HU \nResusci Anne (and the Personal Displays of Affection) drags up the lore surrounding Resusci Anne; an unidentified drowned girl\, considered to be the ‘world’s most beautiful dead girl’ and whose face was used to create the first CPR training dummies. \nThe show finds Holly and Raina as they search for their friend Anne in the club of dead women\, unsure how they arrived there and desperate for a resolution. Haunted by famous dead women; Joan of Arc\, Ophelia and Elizabeth Taylor\, the two grapple with pop culture and their pasts in an attempt to resuscitate the truth behind their best friend’s death. With banjo-based comaraderie from the wonderful Gael Showler\, Resusci Anne (and the Personal Displays of Affection) swims the line of gig-theatre\, folk-tale\, sea-shanty and long form spoken word. Beware the vague and wet graffiti! Beware the loss that threatens to fall on your head! \nThis event will also feature music from Kerensa. Breaking the pop mould\, Kerensa is a gender and genre fluid artist you will never unsee (in the best way). Singing in both English and Mandarin\, this classically trained dual heritage being embraces and blends all of their identities in one and ties them together with a neat\, theatrical operatic vocal bow. With dramatic ups and downs\, Kerensa keeps you guessing. This London based self-producing artist has been busy. They have played venues such as Southbank Centre and Rough Trade Bristol\, been on tour with Sounds Queer X Sofar Sounds\, and has new music coming out this year. \nTickets are £7 (£5 concessions) and are available to book in advance here.\n \nThe Nest is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand. \n 
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/resusci-anne-performance/
LOCATION:The Nest\, 33-35 Little Clarendon St\, Oxford\, OX1 2HU
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Resusci-Anne.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251026T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251026T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250625T103948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250625T103948Z
UID:10933-1761483600-1761490800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Drafting Table - Featured Poet Session
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to Drafting Table\, where we share our emerging poems with each other and provide feedback in a safe and inclusive environment. \nMaybe you have been attending the Getting Started sessions and feel ready to edit your work and develop your ideas. Maybe you’re an experienced but unpublished poet who wants to take those next steps in your poetry career. Just bring a willingness to receive and provide feedback with the whole group! \nOnce a month\, we invite a published poet to join us. There will be a short reading of their poems followed by a workshop where attendees can learn more about the creative process\, get an insight into what it means to be a poet\, and share our work with them. \nStay tuned for more details on this month’s poet! \nFeel free to email any queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-featured-poet-session-8/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/drafting-table-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251031T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251031T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20241115T171358Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250912T134736Z
UID:8287-1761910200-1761915600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Hip Crowd open mic: Halloween special
DESCRIPTION:Hey! The rumours are true. It’s… \nThe Hip Crowd Open Mic! \n\nOxford Poetry Library and Makespace Oxford bring you an open mic event especially for folks with babes-in-arms\, but also open to all and everyone. \nIf you’re feeling like daytime is the right time for you to entertain or be entertained\, join us at The Community Works on the last Friday of every month. The action begins at 11.30am\, but performers please do arrive from 11am to sign up for your turn on the stage. \nWe welcome poetry\, music\, storytelling\, comedy and whatever else you think might dazzle in a 5-minute slot. \nWe have a very special Halloween edition of The Hip Crowd this month\, featuring an extended reading from Oxfordshire-based writers Lizzie Shannon-Little and Gerard Lewis\, presenting their new book\, The Tale of the Propeller Man and Other Stories. \nThe book began life in the depths of lockdown\, when Lizzie and Gerard – trapped at home with their 10-month-old baby – entertained themselves by writing poems inspired by their own separate experiences as children reading the gloriously creepy Der Struwwelpeter by Dr Heinrich Hoffmann. What started as a bleary-eyed parenting distraction turned into a deliciously wicked collection in which every poem follows a wayward child on the road to their inevitable\, dreadful fate. \nThink Roald Dahl meets Edward Gorey with a splash of Hilaire Belloc… gothic\, quirky\, and gleefully macabre. Each story is brought vividly (and darkly!) to life by illustrator Alexandra Ricketts\, whose haunting artwork perfectly matches the wicked humour of the verse. \nLizzie and Gerard met at a writing group in Oxford over twelve years ago\, and since then they’ve co-created their daughter\, and now this gloriously twisted little book! \nLizzie Shannon-Little is an artist and writer\, who would like to run away to live as a bohemian creative obsessing over dark storytelling\, folktales\, and all things witchy. Sadly\, she has responsibilities and bills to pay. She balances her writing alongside her career in communications and her creative life as an interdisciplinary artist. Find her on Instagram @eshannonlittle. \nGerard Lewis is an author\, playwright\, and musician. He has written a novel\, The Laundry Basket\, seen two plays – The Hypnotist and Four Beds – performed in London theatres\, and is a songwriter with his band Higher Music State. He also wrote several other tales for this collection\, but they were deemed “too dark even for this book” — ask him about Little Parsley Long if you dare. \nJoin us to hear these witty\, wickedly macabre rhymes\, where mischievous children meet the most dreadful of ends… \nRead more here: The Propeller Man | cautionary tales \nThe entire event will be baby friendly and baby welcoming\, with lots of floor space at the front\, changing facilities\, buggy parking area outside\, and clear walkways to exit the performance area easily if needed.  There will also be that most beautiful and warmly appreciated of gifts: free tea and coffee provided. \nThe event is non-ticketed\, but costs £5 to spectate (£2 for concessions) and is totally free to performers. \nBe there or be square. \n 
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-hip-crowd-open-mic-14/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Screenshot-2024-03-02-at-16.47.19.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251101T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251101T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250320T121830Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250320T121830Z
UID:9758-1762002000-1762009200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Drafting Table - Workshop Session
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to our poetry drafting group\, where we share our emerging poems with each other and provide feedback in a safe and inclusive environment. \nMaybe you have been attending the Getting Started sessions and feel ready to edit your work and develop your ideas. Maybe you’re an experienced but unpublished poet who wants to take those next steps in your poetry career. If you feel you’d like to join us\, please bring along at least one unfinished\, unpublished work-in-progress that you’re willing to share with the whole group. We are normally able to hear and give feedback to around 6 or 7 poets per session. \nRegular attendance is encouraged\, to help us build a trusting and collaborative community. \nFeel free to email queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com \nWe meet: \n1-3pm \nFirst Saturday of every month at The Community Works\n \n21 Park End Street OX1 1HH
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-workshop-session-31/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/drafting-table-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251104T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251104T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20241115T165251Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251024T135044Z
UID:8256-1762284600-1762293600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:This Is Just To Say: spoken word open mic
DESCRIPTION:Oxford Poetry Library presents a spoken word open mic night! Join us in the library on the first Tuesday of every month to enjoy all manner of word-weaving\, story-sharing\, and spell-casting. \nWe welcome poets\, storytellers\, and writers of all kinds to share their work (or the work of others) in a safe\, supportive\, and inclusive space. Slots are 2-3 minutes long\, and performers sign up on the door – first come\, first served and slots fill up quickly so we recommend arriving in good time for 7pm! \nAt OPL we want everyone to feel comfortable and has space to enjoy the night. That’s why we have a few basic guidelines that we ask everyone to follow: \n\nPlease refrain from using discriminatory language or harmful content in your performance. If you are unsure about your performance\, speak to the host when you arrive.\nYou should aim to read something that’s around one page or two minutes – this ensures that everyone has enough time to read.\n\nThe theme for this month’s session is DIS/APPEARING. What fades\, what remains\, what refuses to disappear? We’re exploring the seen and unseen\, the lost and found\, the stories that slip through the cracks. Bring your ghosts\, your light\, the invisible\, and the clear as day. \nEvery month we feature a performer with a slightly extended set and this month’s featured performer to grace our stage will be Smriti Verma. Smriti grew up in Delhi and has been writing for the past ten years. Her poetry and fiction has appeared in VIBE\, The Alipore Post\, VAYAVYA\, The Adroit Journal\, Coldnoon and B O D Y\, among others\, and she received the First Prize at OPL’s TASTE Poetry Competition. She is an alumnus of the Kolam Writer’s Workshop and has recently been delving into creative nonfiction. Currently\, she is a DPhil Student in English at University of Oxford\, where she works on women’s life-writing and feminist thought. She works as a Poetry Editor for Inklette and for The Ideate Review. Her work can be found on smritiverma.tumblr.com. \nThe session starts at 7.30pm (performers are advised to arrive from 7pm)\, at The Community Works (21 Park End St\, OX1 1HU). \n£5 entry (£2 concessions)\, performers free. \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand!
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/this-is-just-to-say-spoken-word-open-mic-34/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/this-is-just-to-say-flyer-no-byob.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251110T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251110T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250801T194503Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250801T194503Z
UID:11305-1762801200-1762806600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Getting Started with Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTell us you’re coming by booking your free ticket here. \nThe Oxford Poetry Library is an accessible space but please do contact us in advance if you have specific requirements. You can email us about this or with any questions about the workshop at oxfordpoetrylibary@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/getting-started-with-poetry-34/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251114T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251114T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20251007T184109Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251105T185350Z
UID:11913-1763127000-1763134200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nWrite Space is a pop-up space for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. Come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm fortnightly on Fridays \nWhere is it?\nThe Event Space at the Community Works\, Park End Street (access through Lula’s). \nWho is it for?\nWriting can be a lonely business and sometimes it can be hard to protect time for yourself to write when life weighs in. Write Space is for anyone writing creatively (poetry\, fiction\, drama\, creative non-fiction…) who values this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nBook your spot in advance via the Eventbrite link below – any donation is welcome from 1p to £££s to support the work of Oxford Poetry Library. \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nIt’s up to you! There is a writing prompt available at the start for those who wish\, or you can settle straight into your own project. We take a short break half -way to chat about what you’re working on\, discuss an aspect of writing life or just stretch your legs and grab a drink. \nWhat should I bring?\nBring what you’re working on and what you like to write on/ with. Bring your own drink or buy one at Lula’s.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-17/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251115T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251115T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250603T141431Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250921T111005Z
UID:10732-1763215200-1763222400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Reading Circle
DESCRIPTION:People who never read poetry don’t write poems that are worth reading – Wendy Cope \n  \nIf you’re keen to find a way in to reading and appreciating poetry\, discover new writing\, and open your mind to the world of poetry\, welcome to The Reading Circle. Come to OPL’s poetry reading group where we’ll share and discuss contemporary poems (and occasionally poems from the late 20th century) in a relaxed and inclusive peer-led environment. \n  \nQuestions we’ll be asking include: \nWhat makes a poem ‘work’?  \nWhy do we like a poem? Why don’t we?  \nIs there such a thing as a fashionable poem? Does it matter?  \nCan we love a poem we don’t fully understand? What makes mystery different to obscurity?  \nWhat might we learn from other poets that can help us enrich our own craft? \n  \nThe Reading Circle meets on the third Saturday of each month\, 2-4 pm in The Community Works. \nWe suggest a donation to attend each session: £5 for general admission (£10 for those able to donate a bit more) and registration is required here. Donations are optional and shouldn’t be prohibitive to you attending\, but all proceeds go to the running costs of the Oxford Poetry Library and our ability to continue providing these sorts of sessions. If you aren’t able to come on the day\, please do cancel your booking on Eventbrite\, to free up space for others. \nThis month’s group will be facilitated by the established writers (and prolific readers) Alan Buckley and Carl Tomlinson. \n  \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-reading-circle-18/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2025-Reading-Circle.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251117T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251117T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250102T160444Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250102T160444Z
UID:8892-1763407800-1763415000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT Reading Group- November Session
DESCRIPTION:Got started with poetry but not sure where to go next?  Need some support and feedback for a specific piece of writing that is bugging you right now? Just looking for a friendly\, low-pressure space to hang out and chat with folks who love words as much as you do? \nWhy not join us at LIT? \nWe are a reading and writing group for cis and trans women\, trans men\, non-binary people\, and people of other minority genders to share their own work and the work of others. We take the broadest\, most inclusive interpretation of what this means- if you feel like you might fit with us\, you probably do! \nWe are a group of writers who host monthly friendly sessions around different themes. We meet in person and online. \nFor more information about us\, you can read our statement of aims and values on our group page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/223789834941256 or email francesca_moll@hotmail.co.uk to request to join our WhatsApp group. \nThis is the event for our November online session. There’s no need to book or buy tickets- feel free just to join us on the zoom link here:\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/85006693701?pwd=TzJpeTBRZGdudlBQTlM0OWJQcVZxdz09
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/lit-reading-group-november-session/
CATEGORIES:Activities To Do,LGBTQAI+,online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/LIT-group-pic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251121T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251121T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20251007T184112Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T184112Z
UID:11914-1763731800-1763739000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nWrite Space is a pop-up space for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. Come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm fortnightly on Fridays \nWhere is it?\nThe Event Space at the Community Works\, Park End Street (access through Lula’s). \nWho is it for?\nWriting can be a lonely business and sometimes it can be hard to protect time for yourself to write when life weighs in. Write Space is for anyone writing creatively (poetry\, fiction\, drama\, creative non-fiction…) who values this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nBook your spot in advance via the Eventbrite link below – any donation is welcome from 1p to £££s to support the work of Oxford Poetry Library. \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nIt’s up to you! There is a writing prompt available at the start for those who wish\, or you can settle straight into your own project. We take a short break half -way to chat about what you’re working on\, discuss an aspect of writing life or just stretch your legs and grab a drink. \nWhat should I bring?\nBring what you’re working on and what you like to write on/ with. Bring your own drink or buy one at Lula’s.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-18/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251128T113000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251128T130000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20241115T171701Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241115T171701Z
UID:8291-1764329400-1764334800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Hip Crowd open mic
DESCRIPTION:Hey! The rumours are true. It’s… \nThe Hip Crowd Open Mic! \n\nOxford Poetry Library and Makespace Oxford bring you an open mic event especially for folks with babes-in-arms\, but also open to all and everyone. \nIf you’re feeling like daytime is the right time for you to entertain or be entertained\, join us at The Community Works on the last Friday of every month. The action begins at 11.30am\, but performers please do arrive from 11am to sign up for your turn on the stage. \nWe welcome poetry\, music\, storytelling\, comedy and whatever else you think might dazzle in a 5-minute slot \nThe entire event will be baby friendly and baby welcoming\, with lots of floor space at the front\, changing facilities\, buggy parking area outside\, and clear walkways to exit the performance area easily if needed.  There will also be that most beautiful and warmly appreciated of gifts: free tea and coffee provided. \nThe event is non-ticketed\, but costs £5 to spectate (£2 for concessions) and is totally free to performers. \nBe there or be square.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-hip-crowd-open-mic-15/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Screenshot-2024-03-02-at-16.47.19.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251130T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251130T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250625T104109Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T132255Z
UID:10935-1764507600-1764514800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Drafting Table - Featured Poet Session
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to Drafting Table\, where we share our emerging poems with each other and provide feedback in a safe and inclusive environment. \nMaybe you have been attending the Getting Started sessions and feel ready to edit your work and develop your ideas. Maybe you’re an experienced but unpublished poet who wants to take those next steps in your poetry career. Just bring a willingness to receive and provide feedback with the whole group! \nOnce a month\, we invite a published poet to join us. There will be a short reading of their poems followed by a workshop where attendees can learn more about the creative process\, get an insight into what it means to be a poet\, and share our work with them. \nThis month’s poet is Sophia Blackwell. \nSophia is the author of five books of poetry\, fiction and non-fiction. Her most recent book\, The Poetry Writers’ Handbook\, was published by Bloomsbury in 2022. Sophia has delivered several writing and publishing workshops for Bloomsbury\, and has been one of the editors of the Writers’ and Artists’ Yearbook for over ten years. \nAs an editor\, Sophia has worked with over fifty authors and edited books that went on to be published by Penguin\, Bloomsbury\, Oxford University Press\, Duke University Press and Unbound. Sophia has lectured on writing\, publishing and events for Falmouth University\, University College London and Oxford University Faculty of Continuing Education. \nWhen not writing or editing\, Sophia makes work that explores the intersections between spoken word\, theatre\, music and radio. She is a presenter and producer on London station Resonance FM and The Polari Prize Podcast\, and has featured on BBC and Virgin Radio. In addition to a twenty-year publishing career\, Sophia has been a featured poet five times at Glastonbury Festival. In 2023\, her electronica-backed poem The Beau Monde was commissioned for the Crown to Couture exhibition at Kensington Palace. She is currently working on her second novel. \nFeel free to email any queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-featured-poet-session-9/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/drafting-table-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251202T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251202T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20241115T165341Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T163656Z
UID:8259-1764703800-1764712800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:This Is Just To Say: spoken word open mic
DESCRIPTION:Oxford Poetry Library presents a spoken word open mic night! Join us in the library on the first Tuesday of every month to enjoy all manner of word-weaving\, story-sharing\, and spell-casting. \nWe welcome poets\, storytellers\, and writers of all kinds to share their work (or the work of others) in a safe\, supportive\, and inclusive space. Slots are 2-3 minutes long\, and performers sign up on the door – first come\, first served and slots fill up quickly so we recommend arriving in good time for 7pm! \nAt OPL we want everyone to feel comfortable and has space to enjoy the night. That’s why we have a few basic guidelines that we ask everyone to follow: \n\nPlease refrain from using discriminatory language or harmful content in your performance. If you are unsure about your performance\, speak to the host when you arrive.\nYou should aim to read something that’s around one page or two minutes – this ensures that everyone has enough time to read.\n\nThe theme this month is IRREVERENCE. We’re ditching the sacred and side-eyeing the serious. Bring your wit\, your bite\, your beautiful disrespect. We want your naughtiest behaviour. \nEvery month we feature a performer with a slightly extended set and this month’s featured performer to grace our stage will be Kat Dixon! Kat (she/they) is a queer writer based in London. Her poetry has been described as “modern\, stylish and filthy” and “the opposite of boring” (Clare Pollard). She’s had poems published with The Rialto\, Magma\, Perverse\, Butcher’s Dog\, Queerlings\, fourteenpoems and others. Kat has a Master’s degree in Writing Poetry with Newcastle University and teaches with the likes of The Poetry School and Aldeburgh Poetry Festival. Their debut poetry chapbook eat the glitter is published with Broken Sleep Books.  IG: @dixon_kat katdixonpoetry.co.uk \nThe session starts at 7.30pm (performers are advised to arrive from 7pm)\, at The Community Works (21 Park End St\, OX1 1HU). \n£5 entry (£2 concessions)\, performers free. \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand!
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/this-is-just-to-say-spoken-word-open-mic-35/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/this-is-just-to-say-flyer-no-byob.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251205T133000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251205T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20251007T184116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T184116Z
UID:11915-1764941400-1764948600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nWrite Space is a pop-up space for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. Come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n1.30-3.30pm fortnightly on Fridays \nWhere is it?\nThe Event Space at the Community Works\, Park End Street (access through Lula’s). \nWho is it for?\nWriting can be a lonely business and sometimes it can be hard to protect time for yourself to write when life weighs in. Write Space is for anyone writing creatively (poetry\, fiction\, drama\, creative non-fiction…) who values this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nBook your spot in advance via the Eventbrite link below – any donation is welcome from 1p to £££s to support the work of Oxford Poetry Library. \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nIt’s up to you! There is a writing prompt available at the start for those who wish\, or you can settle straight into your own project. We take a short break half -way to chat about what you’re working on\, discuss an aspect of writing life or just stretch your legs and grab a drink. \nWhat should I bring?\nBring what you’re working on and what you like to write on/ with. Bring your own drink or buy one at Lula’s.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-19/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/screengrab-Write-Space-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251206T130000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251206T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250320T121939Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250320T121939Z
UID:9760-1765026000-1765033200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Drafting Table - Workshop Session
DESCRIPTION:Welcome to our poetry drafting group\, where we share our emerging poems with each other and provide feedback in a safe and inclusive environment. \nMaybe you have been attending the Getting Started sessions and feel ready to edit your work and develop your ideas. Maybe you’re an experienced but unpublished poet who wants to take those next steps in your poetry career. If you feel you’d like to join us\, please bring along at least one unfinished\, unpublished work-in-progress that you’re willing to share with the whole group. We are normally able to hear and give feedback to around 6 or 7 poets per session. \nRegular attendance is encouraged\, to help us build a trusting and collaborative community. \nFeel free to email queries to opldraftingtable@gmail.com \nWe meet: \n1-3pm \nFirst Saturday of every month at The Community Works\n \n21 Park End Street OX1 1HH
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/drafting-table-workshop-session-32/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/drafting-table-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251208T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251208T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250801T194936Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250801T194936Z
UID:11308-1765220400-1765225800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Getting Started with Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTell us you’re coming by booking your free ticket here. \nThe Oxford Poetry Library is an accessible space but please do contact us in advance if you have specific requirements. You can email us about this or with any questions about the workshop at oxfordpoetrylibary@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/getting-started-with-poetry-35/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251213T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251213T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20241209T162057Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250919T170903Z
UID:8626-1765634400-1765641600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Shape of Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Note that these sessions will take place online – links to the Zoom sessions will be circulated to those who have registered in advance of these events.  \nMany of us feel intimidated by formal poetry: Some of us consider it too restrictive and governed by rules\, while others write exclusively in form. This workshop is an invitation to all writers of poetry\, whether you’re just starting out or have been writing for years\, to explore the creative potential of poetic forms. \nOur monthly sessions happen on the second Saturday of the month from 2pm til 4pm. During each of our workshops\, we will look at the conventions of a particular form such as the sonnet\, ghazal\, or haiku\, read example poems\, and write our own versions. This workshop will be a collaborative space for us to explore how experimenting with limitations or restrictions in our writing can give us whole new ways of expressing ourselves\, and open unexpected doors! Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTickets are priced at £5 for general admission (£10 for those able to donate a bit more\, £2 for those on lower income) and registration is required. If this cost would be prohibitive to your attending\, please email us at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com and we can allocate you one of our limited free spots in the workshop.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-shape-of-poetry-11/
LOCATION:The Community Works\, 21 Park End Street\, Oxford\, OX1 1HH\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IN-PERSON-Shape-of-Poetry-flyer.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20251215T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20251215T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20250102T160601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250102T160601Z
UID:8894-1765827000-1765834200@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:LIT Reading Group- December Session
DESCRIPTION:Got started with poetry but not sure where to go next?  Need some support and feedback for a specific piece of writing that is bugging you right now? Just looking for a friendly\, low-pressure space to hang out and chat with folks who love words as much as you do? \nWhy not join us at LIT? \nWe are a reading and writing group for cis and trans women\, trans men\, non-binary people\, and people of other minority genders to share their own work and the work of others. We take the broadest\, most inclusive interpretation of what this means- if you feel like you might fit with us\, you probably do! \nWe are a group of writers who host monthly friendly sessions around different themes. We meet in person and online. \nFor more information about us\, you can read our statement of aims and values on our group page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/223789834941256 or email francesca_moll@hotmail.co.uk to request to join our WhatsApp group. \nThis is the event for our December online session. There’s no need to book or buy tickets- feel free just to join us on the zoom link here:\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/85006693701?pwd=TzJpeTBRZGdudlBQTlM0OWJQcVZxdz09
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/lit-reading-group-december-session/
CATEGORIES:Activities To Do,LGBTQAI+,online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/LIT-group-pic.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260106T193000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260106T220000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20251024T165135Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251209T191101Z
UID:12024-1767727800-1767736800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:This Is Just to Say: spoken word open mic
DESCRIPTION:Oxford Poetry Library presents a spoken word open mic night! Join us in the library on the first Tuesday of every month to enjoy all manner of word-weaving\, story-sharing\, and spell-casting. \nWe welcome poets\, storytellers\, and writers of all kinds to share their work (or the work of others) in a safe\, supportive\, and inclusive space. Slots are 2-3 minutes long\, and performers sign up on the door – first come\, first served and slots fill up quickly so we recommend arriving in good time for 7pm! \nAt OPL we want everyone to feel comfortable and has space to enjoy the night. That’s why we have a few basic guidelines that we ask everyone to follow: \n\nPlease refrain from using discriminatory language or harmful content in your performance. If you are unsure about your performance\, speak to the host when you arrive.\nYou should aim to read something that’s around one page or 2-3 minutes – this ensures that everyone has enough time to read.\n\nThe theme for this month is THE SURREAL. We are staggering bewildered into the new year in a haze of mulled wine fumes\, feeling a little delirious\, and we want your weirdness. Bring your dreams\, your glitches\, your distortions. Reality is optional. \nEvery month we feature a performer with a slightly extended set and this month’s featured performer to grace our stage will be Syd Meats! Starting out as a singer-songwriter and performance poet Syd had songs broadcast on BBC Radio 4\, and was a Hammer & Tongue Regional Poetry Slam finalist in 2019 before he started to type up his work. He has been shortlisted twice for Verve’s Poem of the Month since April 2025\, and Highly Commended in the 2025 Charm Poetry Prize. ‘Often tender\, always quirky\, kind and frequently hilarious. A Syd Meats poem will make the sun come out in your heart.’ –Vanessa Lampert. \nThe session starts at 7.30pm (performers are advised to arrive from 7pm)\, at The Community Works (21 Park End St\, OX1 1HU). \n£5 entry (£2 concessions)\, performers free. \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand!
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/this-is-just-to-say-spoken-word-open-mic-36/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Reading / Launch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/this-is-just-to-say-flyer-no-byob.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260110T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260110T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20251228T103931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251228T103931Z
UID:12590-1768053600-1768060800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Shape of Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Note that these sessions will take place online – links to the Zoom sessions will be circulated to those who have registered in advance of these events.  \nMany of us feel intimidated by formal poetry: Some of us consider it too restrictive and governed by rules\, while others write exclusively in form. This workshop is an invitation to all writers of poetry\, whether you’re just starting out or have been writing for years\, to explore the creative potential of poetic forms. \nOur monthly sessions happen on the second Saturday of the month from 2pm til 4pm. During each of our workshops\, we will look at the conventions of a particular form such as the sonnet\, ghazal\, or haiku\, read example poems\, and write our own versions. This workshop will be a collaborative space for us to explore how experimenting with limitations or restrictions in our writing can give us whole new ways of expressing ourselves\, and open unexpected doors! Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTickets are priced at £5 for general admission (£10 for those able to donate a bit more\, £2 for those on lower income) and registration is required. If this cost would be prohibitive to your attending\, please email us at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com and we can allocate you one of our limited free spots in the workshop.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-shape-of-poetry-7/
LOCATION:Online
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ONLINE-Shape-of-Poetry-flyer-ONLINE1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260110T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260110T170000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20251114T164715Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251205T151013Z
UID:12230-1768053600-1768064400@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Poetry in Science: A workshop
DESCRIPTION:Science and poetry might seem to spin in different spheres. While science aims to build robust models on how nature functions\, poetry deepens meaning through subjective rediscovery of the world around us. So\, what happens when they occupy the same space? \nScience in Poetry is a generative writing workshop run in collaboration with SEISMA magazine. Whether you’re a scientist wanting to dabble with some “unknowing” through poetry\, or a writer looking for new scientific entryways into the poem\, this workshop is for you! \n\n\n\nDuring this one-time session\, we will be looking at poems that use scientific ideas and exposition as our starting points\, followed by prompted exercises and tips on drafting and editing. There will be a dedicated time for writing towards the end of the session\, and opportunities to share your first drafts in a safe and inclusive environment. \nNo fancy lab equipment needed – all necessary materials (e.g.\, handouts\, pen\, and paper) will be provided! \nCome join us on the 10th January (2pm to 5pm) at: \nOxford Poetry Library\nThe Community Works\n21 Park End Street\nOX1 1HH \nWorkshop open to anyone aged 16+ \nAttendance is FREE but capacity is limited to 15 people\, so please register your place here. \nThe Oxford Poetry Library is an accessible space but please do contact us in advance if you have specific requirements. \nFeel free to email any queries to Rency: rencyraquid@seismamagazine.com \nThis event is run in collaboration with Seisma Magazine.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/science-in-poetry-workshop/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
CATEGORIES:Activities To Do,Community Event,Workshop
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/SEISMA-WS-IMAGE-RR-13.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260112T190000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260112T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20251129T104411Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251129T104411Z
UID:12355-1768244400-1768249800@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Getting Started with Poetry
DESCRIPTION:Whether you’ve never written a poem before\, have just started to write\, or aren’t sure if what you’re writing is poetry\, this monthly workshop is a chance to carve out some time for writing. \nIn each workshop\, we’ll read a poem together\, and use it as our starting point. We’ll suggest some prompts you could take from the poem\, and ideas you might like to borrow. There will be plenty of time to write\, and plenty more prompts if you get stuck. At the end of the session\, you’ll be able to share what you’ve written in a supportive environment. \nAll you need to bring is yourself – these workshops are here for you to enjoy writing and build confidence in your voice. The workshop is open to anyone aged 16+. \nTell us you’re coming by booking your free ticket here. \nThe Oxford Poetry Library is an accessible space but please do contact us in advance if you have specific requirements. You can email us about this or with any questions about the workshop at oxfordpoetrylibary@gmail.com
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/getting-started-with-poetry-36/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260116T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260116T140000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20260109T161536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T161536Z
UID:12712-1768564800-1768572000@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:Write Space
DESCRIPTION:What is it?\nWrite Space is a pop-up space for you to work on your creative writing projects in the company of other local writers. Come and write with us in a friendly low-key environment. \nWhen is it?\n12-2pm on the third Friday of each month (currently booking to June 2026). \nWhere is it?\nThe Event Space at the Community Works\, Park End Street (access through Lula’s). \nWho is it for?\nWriting can be a lonely business and sometimes it can be hard to protect time for yourself to write when life weighs in. Write Space is for anyone writing creatively (poetry\, fiction\, drama\, creative non-fiction…) who values this space. Write Space is facilitated by OPL volunteers. \nHow do I take part?\nBook your spot in advance via the Eventbrite link below – any donation is welcome from 1p to £££s to support the work of Oxford Poetry Library. \nDo I have to come for the whole time?\nIt’s up to you! There is a writing prompt available at the start for those who wish\, or you can settle straight into your own project. We take a short break half -way to chat about what you’re working on\, discuss an aspect of writing life or just stretch your legs and grab a drink. \nWhat should I bring?\nBring what you’re working on and what you like to write on/ with. Bring your own drink or buy one at Lula’s.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/write-space-20/
LOCATION:The Community Works Event Space
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260117T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260117T160000
DTSTAMP:20260403T220851
CREATED:20251117T094317Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T142527Z
UID:12248-1768658400-1768665600@oxfordpoetrylibrary.com
SUMMARY:The Reading Circle
DESCRIPTION:People who never read poetry don’t write poems that are worth reading – Wendy Cope \n  \nIf you’re keen to find a way in to reading and appreciating poetry\, discover new writing\, and open your mind to the world of poetry\, welcome to The Reading Circle. Come to OPL’s poetry reading group where we’ll share and discuss contemporary poems (and occasionally poems from the late 20th century) in a relaxed and inclusive peer-led environment. \n  \nQuestions we’ll be asking include: \nWhat makes a poem ‘work’?  \nWhy do we like a poem? Why don’t we?  \nIs there such a thing as a fashionable poem? Does it matter?  \nCan we love a poem we don’t fully understand? What makes mystery different to obscurity?  \nWhat might we learn from other poets that can help us enrich our own craft? \n  \nThe Reading Circle meets on the third Saturday of each month\, 2-4 pm in The Community Works. \nWe suggest a donation to attend each session: £5 for general admission (£10 for those able to donate a bit more) and registration is required here. Donations are optional and shouldn’t be prohibitive to you attending\, but all proceeds go to the running costs of the Oxford Poetry Library and our ability to continue providing these sorts of sessions. If you aren’t able to come on the day\, please do cancel your booking on Eventbrite\, to free up space for others. \nThis month’s group will be facilitated by the established writers (and prolific readers) Alan Buckley and Vanessa Lampert. \n  \nThe building is accessible\, but if you have any specific access needs\, please drop us an email at oxfordpoetrylibrary@gmail.com beforehand.
URL:https://oxfordpoetrylibrary.com/event/the-reading-circle-19/
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