In celebration of Poetry Month, six emerging poets share their new and recently published works traversing themes both universal and deeply personal.

In the intimate surrounds of The Moat, six emerging poets share works that engage with language and its possibilities, darkness and recovery, the alienation of modernity and the complexities of modern life. 

Hear from Wiradjuri poet Alison J Barton (Not Telling) as she shares work that confronts the ongoing legacy of colonial dispossession and the strength of its survivors, as well as musings on sacred land and celebration of continued culture. Sholto Buck (In the Printed Version of Heaven) presents an array of poems attuned to practices of noticing and observing, offering a kaleidoscopic world that shimmers and shifts around the self. Visual artist and writer Linda Judge reads new work marked by indelible imagery and keen attention to language. Laurence Levy-Atkinson (Too Much Night) offers poems that are distinctive, conversational and shot with humour, building towards acceptance and hope. Connor Weightman (Fivehundred Swimming Pools) traverses pop culture, internet rabbit holes and lyric elements in a selection of long poems. Wing Yau (The Fiction of Flying) considers the poet’s migrant experience in Australia, exploring identity, language and stories left unspoken.

Join us in celebrating Poetry Month as host Pranati Narayan Visweswaran introduces these writers poised to make their mark.

This event may include references to sensitive content. The authors will share relevant content warnings with the audience before their readings.

The Next Big Thing series is generously supported by George and Rosa Morstyn.

Presented in partnership with Red Room Poetry as part of Poetry Month

Connor Weightman

Photo by Charlie Moriarty

The Next Big Thing: Poetry Month Edition