The Reconnecting to Our Waterways (ROW) Little Eagle Creek Waterway Committee and Brick Street Poetry, Inc. have teamed up to create a poetry anthology inspired by experiences with northwest Marion County waterways including Little Eagle Creek, Falcon Creek, Guion Creek, Crooked Creek, and the White River. ROW and Brick Street Poetry want to hear from citizens on the role these waterways play in their lives, how the waterways inspire, or stories of connections made with the waterways nearby. These collected thoughts and experiences are being collected through a quick on-line survey found at http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LECPoetry
Those who have not had the opportunity to visit yet are encouraged to stop by and observe Little Eagle Creek and its tributaries. Chances are, there is beauty, wild natural spaces and wildlife to be found and explored. A map can be found by following the survey link. In addition to sharing comments, community members are invited to submit a poem for inclusion in the anthology. Not familiar with writing poetry? The Indianapolis Public Library will be hosting a series of online workshops lead by Indiana Poet Laureate Emerita Joyce Brinkman. Look for the workshops at the Eagle and Pike Branch Libraries or on the Library’s county-wide calendar.
“Poetry presents an enjoyable opportunity to examine the ways water flows through both the landscape and our lives,” said Brinkman. “It’s important for us all to appreciate the value of water in our community and the world.”
“Everyone who lives, works, plays or worships in Indy’s northwest neighborhoods near Little Eagle Creek is encouraged to participate in this unique opportunity to connect with our waterways, and share those thoughts to inspire poetry,” said Joan Servaas, President of Indianapolis Healthplex and Co-Chair of the Little Eagle Committee. “While people are feeling isolated and disconnected due to the pandemic, nature and our waterways are more important than ever. Take a walk, grab lunch at a nearby restaurant and have a picnic beside, bike along, or just sit and reflect near a waterway – then share your thoughts!”
Residents will be invited to join in a reading of the poetry when it comes out in early 2021. And, those whose direct quotes are incorporated in the work of a participating poets will even receive a free copy of the book. The deadline to complete the survey and provide inspiration is December 15, 2020. More information about the anthology will be posted on ROW’s and – http://www.facebook.com/ourwaterways/. If you wish to submit a poem yourself you will be able to find the call at http://tiptonpoetryjournal.com/creek_anthology/ and http://www.facebook.com/poetryonbrickstreet/
Reconnecting to Our Waterways is a collective impact initiative that has worked purposefully since 2012 to improve the quality of all life along Indianapolis waterways and surrounding neighborhoods. The Little Eagle Creek Waterway Committee has been focused on growing community, exploring culture, and connecting with our waterways. ROW’s Little Eagle Creek Committee meets monthly (currently virtually) to bring projects like the Poetry Anthology, Creek Week waterway clean-ups and more. To get connected and help build waterway awareness, organize community events, and beautify neighborhood spaces, please contact info@ourwaterways.org and visit http://ourwaterways.org.
