Saturday 9th June 2018
The winter ginko was held this morning in Subiaco, Perth. The meeting was based at the Subiaco Library and we ventured into the streets and nearby market for inspiration. It was a little disappointing only four poets attended but those that did managed to produce an interesting and varied body of work. Apart from writing haiku, the group explored varied ways of writing haibun and a number of exercises were carried out based upon the seasons and the moon. As is often the case, the diversity of approaches to a set topic demonstrates the knowledge and experiences of the writers. The group decided to embark on a collaborative effort to write rengay by exchanging verses through email over the next few weeks. Although different from haiku many similar techniques are required when writing rengay. It was thought that perhaps this would lead to more interaction between poets. The first verse of the rengay will be forwarded to participants in a day or so.
The ginko took in the streets near the library and the boisterous vegetable and food market in the adjacent school with great piles of produce, colour and music. Conditions were blustery but the rain held off and we even had glimpses of the sun.
Those attending were Meryl Manoy, Rose Van Son, Liz Nicholls and Barry Sanbrook. Sadly Maureen Sexton who had organised the event was unable to attend through ill health, and we hope she recovers soon.
Barry Sanbrook
Australian Haiku Society 