Reading Groups: Mary Leader's Beyond the Fire
Dear Readers,
Guided Poetry Book Groups are my new offering: facilitated sessions for committed poetry readers and writers who wish to engage in a practice of reading more deeply, creatively, and intentionally.
Each month, I guide small groups through a close reading of a current book of poetry—books that are overlooked and underrated; books that have something important to tell us about what it is to be alive today.
This brief post is a catalyst for discussion for Mary Leader’s Beyond the Fire. This thread is a place for members of the reading group to answer the questions I’ve posed and to pose questions of their own. And though it’s intended for members of the reading group, I welcome comments from anyone committed to a deeper, more intentional reading of this important book.
I’m including a few reflections below to kick us off.
I’m going to announce the next round of reading groups in late October. Send me an email if you’d like to be notified when registration opens for the January 2023 cycle.
Sean
Discussion prompts: Mary Leader’s Beyond the Fire
The book ends with an “Envoi,” which has its origins in medieval French poetry and usually ends the ballade or sestina in French forms. It literally means “sending forth.” François Villon’s “Mais ou sont les neiges d’antan?” or “Where are the snows of yesteryear?” is an example of a classic envoi. Why end the book this way?
What does it mean to be attentive and focussed on form?
Are forms organic or imposed?
How does form in a poem increase or intensify beauty and meaning?