Dear Versopolis friends,Whether it elicits a sigh of relief or a twinge of nostalgia, you've just unwrapped the final Versopolis newsletter for this year. But don't let the closing paragraphs mislead you; instead, envision it as a prelude to numerous beginnings blooming at Versopolis. In the days to come, we unveil a captivating video column set to entertain you throughout the upcoming year, along with the exciting launch of a fresh anthology and podcast.Yearning to be part of something extraordinary next year? Don't miss the swiftly approaching deadline for Poetry Expo entry submissions.As we bid adieu to this year, may your conclusion be both pleasant and contemplative, enveloped in the embrace of poetry and the company of those dear to you. Here's to a delightful start to the new year!
With poetic regards,
Your Versopolis teamLAST CALLPoetry Expo 2024Get ready for the grand comeback of the Poetry Expo in 2024. Time is running out, and the ultimate deadline for submissions is swiftly approaching on December 15th.  Seize the moment and ensure your presence at the online poetry fair.

Poetry Expo 2024, in line with our previous initiatives, is a unique digital platform dedicated to the exploration and celebration of poetry, human creativity and literature. In a rapidly evolving world, Poetry Expo aims not only to showcase the brilliance of different nations, cultures and languages, but also to highlight the transformative potential of the art and literature in addressing current global issues and anticipating future developments. Under the redefined theme "Versing Futures: Unravelling Unity Through Poetry", Poetry Expo aims to inspire societal change by promoting the potential of literature and art to address the pressing issues of our time, such as the climate crisis, technological advances, mental health and social inequalities.Submit your proposals and entries now for an opportunity to share your voice on Versopolis's online stage.                                                                                                             How to participate >>

NEW EUROPEAN POETRYVersopolis anthologyExciting news! We joyfully introduce the latest release of Nueva poesía europea - the Versopolis anthology in Spanish translation, brought to you by Círculo de poesía. This fresh compilation showcases the creations of over 80 Versopolis poets, presented in both their native languages and expertly translated into Spanish. The anthology made its debut at the prestigious Guadalajara International Book Fair in Mexico just last week. Secure your e-book download now and delve into this rich collection of poetic treasures.                                                                                                             Download e-book >>

POETRY AT THE FRANKFURT BOOK FAIR Versopolis podcast #10The unanimous opinion is that Slovenia more than impressed the visitors at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2023. The highlights of the Slovenian programme – under the motto Honeycomb of Words – were poetry, philosophy and deep reading. Apart from a total of 250 events at the fair, the largest selection of Slovenian poetry to date was published in German translation. The role of poetry was apparent in Frankfurt with well-attended readings, demonstrating that poetry, while often not at the forefront of the scene, still finds its place in a digital, instant-solutions-oriented age. How was poetry highlighted in this year’s edition of the fair? How does poetry enforce deep reading and critical thought that is declared in the Ljubljana Manifesto on Deep Reading? These questions are addressed by Dr Mitja Drab in conversation with translator Amalija Maček and poet José F. A. Oliver.>> Listen here

MY LIFE WITH POETRYVersopolis videoWelcome to ‘My Life with Poetry’, a new video column by Versopolis that delves into the personal journeys of established and emerging poets as well as other figures in the world of literature and poetry, such as poetry festival directors. In each episode, Versopolis’s poetic voices will open up about their intimate connection with poetry, tracing their paths from the very first encounter with verses to their present moments in the poetic landscape.

Our inaugural guest is Ondřej Lipár, a distinguished Czech poet. Join us as he shares the enchanting tale of his poetic evolution, offering insights into the profound impact poetry has had on his life. Stay tuned for a series that unravels the unique narratives behind the poetic minds that shape our literary world.>> Watch here

AUTHORS OF THE WEEKTurkeyAn anomaly in populism: Orhan Veli’s Pit by Efe Duyan

Orhan Veli, born in Istanbul in 1914, is one of the few poets who has been considered as one of the greats by his peers and historians while reaching out to large masses. From the 1940s on, no history of Turkish poetry could have even imagined to omit him and, even today, it is equally impossible to find a Turkish reader who is not thoroughly familiar with his work. >> Keep reading
Cevat Çapan: a life in poetry by Gökçenur Ç.

Cevat Çapan, a prominent figure in Turkish literature, is a multifaceted talent whose life and work have left an indelible mark on the world of poetry, translation, academia and the arts. Born on 18 January 1933 in Darıca, Turkey, Çapan’s journey through life is a fascinating exploration of cultural bridges, literary innovation and the craft of poetry.
>> Keep reading

MOVED BY VERSOPOLISHelen Ivory & Ana Marija GrbićIn the preceding month, two Versopolis poets generously imparted their wisdom and reflections gleaned from their participation in esteemed poetry festivals held this autumn. The talented British poetess, Helen Ivory, graced the Athens World Poetry Festival in Greece, offering her unique perspective. Simultaneously, Ana Marija Grbić shared her enriching experiences from the Szépírók Társasága in Budapest, Hungary.

"In terms of what I bought to the festival line-up – I think feminism and a strong female energy!  I am writing about witches - the monstering and the scapegoating of women and on the fear of ageing femininity.  Some of my poems cover the somewhat taboo subject of the menopause.  I had conversations with a few women after my readings about these things – it seems women have been suffering in silence for a very long time and now they are ready to talk!" said Helen about her contribution to the festival.

"Upon my return home, I contemplated new ways to establish connections within the Hungarian literature scene. Versopolis offers an opportunity in this regard," shared Ana Marija Grbić.>> Stroll down their memory lane

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