The main activity at TPS meetings is to workshop our poems. The format is simple, developed to promote the exchange of comments and suggestions in a friendly and respectful atmosphere. Everyone is most welcome to join us at any of the workshop meetings. You do not have to bring a poem on your first visit.

Workshop Format: The poet brings 24 copies which are passed out to those present, and reads the poem while the rest of us follow along on the printed copy. Then the group discusses the poem, providing feedback on what seems to work or not work well for the reader, and making suggestions. The poet listens, but makes no comment. It is by listening to all the opinions that a sense of what enhances the poem becomes clear. There is often disagreement. After the group has finished discussing the poem, the poet has the chance to comment, if he or she wishes to do so.

If you are writing in a lonely vacuum, find or form a group with other poets. It will enhance your work and theirs too. If you live close to Hamilton, come and join us!

We meet one Saturday a month from 2:00–4:00 p.m.

Our meeting venue is the Westdale Public Library, 955 King St. W., Hamilton.

September 14, 2019 – workshop
October 19, 2019 – workshop [NOTE: moved to third Saturday]
November 9, 2019 – workshop

January 11, 2020 – workshop
February 8, 2020 – annual Poetry TALK*
March 14, 2020 – workshop
April 18, 2020 – workshop [NOTE: moved to third Saturday]
May 9, 2020 – AGM and short workshop
No workshops are held in the summer months.

Bring 24 copies of your poem, or just come and sit in until you feel comfortable with the process.

*Note re Poetry TALK: One monthly meeting each year is devoted to learning about a specific kind of poetry, or about the life and work of a single poet.
Check the Events page closer to the date to see who our 2020 presenter will be.