All active or aspiring poets are invited to an informal gathering to re-connect with wild nature through the art of poetry. As always, bring poetry to share, your own or a favorite poet’s, or a relevant prose reading. After sharing we’ll split up to wander, gathering observations and inspirations, or find a special spot to sit and write. This is why we’re here: once we leave the company of other people behind, we’re more open to what the woods may have to whisper in our ears. A little after noon we’ll re-converge for more sharing or just to talk. Don’t forget writing supplies, drinking water, shoes for hiking, a blanket or camp chair (optional).

Hidden Acres Nature Preserve is a 63-acre Dekalb County park in the heart of Stone Mountain, bordering Stone Mountain Park to the north, but without the theme-park attractions and the entry fee. It has a picturesque lake, a picnic shelter and wide swaths of manicured grass. But beyond all that you’ll find a shady path into the wild woods.

After turning in off Stephenson Rd., you’ll pass between a pair of parking lots and continue through an open gate to a third lot where the pavement ends. From there you can see three potential gathering spots. Most obvious is the large picnic shelter on your left, but on a Saturday morning it may be already occupied. When I went to scout the park it had only one picnic table, and someone had apparently moved a second one into the middle of the paved path. That’s another possibility, if it’s still there. If not, or if it is also occupied, down a grassy slope to your right you’ll see a few park benches along the lake. Look for us at one of the three locations.

I look forward to seeing you. Click here for directions.

Earth blessings, Wing

p.s. Spread the word to any Earth Poets you know! Email me at swing1027@gmail.com to join my email list for future workshops, once each season in a different nature preserve or urban wildspace. Suggestions for future workshop locations are welcome.