Poetry on Main

This past Friday, Montana’s largest bookstore played host to one of the Bozeman Poetry Collective’s (BPC) bimonthly open mic poetry recital evenings. On Oct. 25, BPC held its monthly open mic recital at Country Bookshelf in downtown Bozeman. Founded in 2013, the Poetry Collective meets on the last Friday of every month at the Country Bookshelf as well as hosting a second monthly meeting at Townshend’s Tea House. The BPC’s main motivation is to “establish a comfortable environment for local poets and artists alike to share their original works or the works of others they enjoy.” These events are entirely free. There is no cost to get in and no cost for refreshments. Although, the Poetry Collective nominates a new charity to which attendees can donate what they can afford. 

On a rather unseasonal and mild Friday evening, around a dozen people settled into their chairs on the quaint upper level of the Country Bookshelf for an evening of original poetry, as well as recitals of works from both celebrated and lesser-known poets. The session began with a reading of “How To Write A Poem In A Time Of War”by Joy Harjo, an emotional poem that relays the hardships that the Native Americans faced against the depravity of the European settlers pillaging their villages. Harjo is an important figure in Native American literature and was recently named the first Native American Poet Laureate. 

As the session continued, attendees pitched in with their own offerings. One man, who simply gave his name as Ian, produced a provoking and astute piece telling the tale of his journey with faith titled “God I Speak To Thee.” Delivered with great power and emotion, he had those in attendance in silence as he rhythmically drove on through the poem. More recitals from the work of others followed, including poems from Bukowski and a particularly scathing account of the misrepresentation of Native Americans entitled “How To Write The Great American Indian Novel” by Sherman Alexie. 

Bozeman Poetry Collective’s open mic nights are open to anyone of any level. Whether you are a budding poet, or simply enjoy reciting pieces that you are fond of, anyone is welcome. Even if you don’t feel like speaking at all, head down to listen to others and I’m sure you will leave feeling inspired and fulfilled by the welcoming and friendly atmosphere the Poetry Collective has created. To keep up to date with upcoming events, be sure to check out Bozeman Poetry Collective on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/bozemanpoetrycollective.