It feels like a natural to me. I've been a poet for as long as I can remember, and a hooper for the past two years, thanks to the encouragement of my sister. I love books. I own a bookstore, run an independent press that focuses solely on poetry, and I teach creative writing (as a rostered poet through the PA Arts in Education Program). I spend all my free time either whirling inside a hoop or with words. Why not create an opportunity for other hooper-poets to share their work?
Through Wordpainting (an imprint of our press, Paper Kite Press), we're working toward creating a print-only anthology that readers can actually place in another's hands and say, "Read the poem on page 63. I think you might like it. But read all the others too. They are inspiring."
In the meantime, we've started a series of Hoop(poetry) posters. Do you have a hoop(oem) to share? See our submission guidelines for more information.
I believe very much in standing inside of a circle to look outward. You look out and see opportunities, make new friends, become inspired to create. Consider this call for submissions a yawp from the center of my circle. Please write and share your poetry about hooping with us.
Cheers,
Jenny.
