Choosing just one item or poet to highlight for National Poetry Day is too difficult so here instead is a selection to illustrate the breadth and depth of poetry-related material in Special Collections.
From original drafts, printers’ proofs, promotional pamphlets and ephemera to literary journals and thousands of poetry books, the material reflects the creative endeavours of multiple generations of New Zealand poets and writers.
Some 20th Century publications which were important platforms for poets include
Tomorrow and
Landfall and university magazines such as Auckland’s Phoenix and Kiwi. To catch a live poetry reading today, check out one of the many
events happening around the country. Our pick is
Poetry Central at the Central City Library tonight, which includes the University’s Michelle Leggott, Selina Marsh and Brian Flaherty.
Jo Birks, Special Collections