Bayard, NM – February 27, 2025 – The Bayard Public Library is thrilled to host an exciting literary event featuring New Mexico Beat Poet Laureate PW Covington. This special gathering, set to take place on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 2 - 4 pm, will offer a poetry workshop inspired by Anne Waldman's poem Fast Speaking Woman, followed by an open mic, inviting community members of all ages and backgrounds to explore the power of words and self-expression.
Fast Speaking Woman is a powerful, incantatory piece built on the repetition of the phrase "I'm a fast speaking woman," with an evolving list of adjectives that define and redefine identity. Examples include: "I'm an elastic woman, I'm an abalone woman, I'm the transparent woman, I'm the rippling woman, the antediluvian woman, a solo woman…"
In the workshop, participants will engage in a guided exercise inspired by this technique. Each person will create their own list of personal adjectives, mapping out their spiritual, emotional, and physical being in a unique and expressive way. This exercise is not only an exploration of self-identity but also a great icebreaker—an unexpected and poetic answer to the question, "Who are you?"
Time will be allotted for voluntary sharing of participants' work, and the workshop will flow into an open mic session where attendees can present their poetry or spoken word pieces. PW Covington will kick off the open mic with selections from his brand-new collection, Vintage Denim, published by Alien Buddha Press.
"The Bayard Public Library is committed to providing opportunities for artistic expression and cultural enrichment," said Cindy "Renee" Provencio, Head Librarian. "Hosting PW Covington is a wonderful way to celebrate poetry's impact and bring people together through the spoken word."
The event is free and open to the public, with no prior poetry experience necessary. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just curious about exploring poetry, this event promises an engaging and welcoming atmosphere. Space is limited so pre-registering for the event is recommended.
Event Details:
Poetry Workshop & Open Mic with PW Covington
Thursday, February 27, 2025 @ 2 – 4 pm
Bayard Public Library, 1112 Central Ave, Bayard, NM 88023
Free & open to all
To pre-register for the event, please contact Renee at 575-537-6244 or
Join us for an inspiring evening of poetry, creativity, and community at the Bayard Public Library!
