The poet pauses now

Sighs as he takes

Pleasure in those six lines he's written. So far,

Though rough, so good. Somehow

The mind that aches

With life keeps faith with words, with what they are.

From the poem called “Poetics”, by Paul Smythe, found at http://www.tnellen.com/cybereng/poetry/poetics.html

Could you be the next Sullivan County Poet Laureate? The Sullivan Public Library Alliance is looking for candidates for the 2021/2022 term. The Poet Laureate will be a leading voice in the county for the appreciation of reading and writing poetry. The selected candidate will shine a light on the rhythm and vitality of language in the poetic form by sharing and promoting poetry through readings, workshops and public appearances, individually and collaboratively.

Applications are due Wednesday, March 31. The term of service is one year - from May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2022. Responsibilities include presenting works of significance to Sullivan County audiences of all ages for a minimum of nine appearances, one in each of the nine public libraries or legislative districts. Applications must include three original poems, one of them specific to the “spirit of Sullivan County.”

This is a one-year appointment with a modest honorarium and the opportunity to publicly present original works. The upcoming term will be the third year of the Sullivan County Poet Laureate Project.The position is currently held by Lisa Caloro, who has brought poetry to audiences throughout the county despite the difficulties caused by the pandemic, often reflecting the emotions many shared in 2020. Poetry lovers, be sure to check out Lisa's “Breather Series” on the Sullivan County Poet Laureate's Facebook page, live every weekday.

For information and application guidelines, go to MamakatingLibrary.org or call your local library.