A Global Conference
Now a Non-Profit!
It is time for something new.
Poetry by the Sea: A Global Conference has been created in the spirit of beginning afresh. The conference will literally take place by the sea, in an awe-inspiring landscape, and at Mercy by the Sea, a beautiful retreat center. This choice of meeting ground signifies how all of us are connected to each other and inspired by one another, whatever our poetic starting point, as we meet in a place of mercy and artistic grace in our shared goal of excellence.
You will find workshops, seminars, and panels in areas such as craft, subject/topic, and global issues.
You will find a tiptoe joy in the way that artificial poetic barriers can fall away as we engage in the passions and interests that define us all.
You will find a private beach, shared community meals and catered receptions (whether you are lodging on-campus or off-campus), and celebrations of artistic achievement.
You will find diversity and inclusiveness, courtesy, and a reach-for-the-stars grandeur. (And at Mercy by the Sea on the beach, they are there for the reaching!)
You will find poetry, both formal and free verse, on the page and in the air, and in multiple languages.
You will find MacArthur winners, PBS-featured poets, heads of foundations and poetry organizations, well-known editors, online entrepreneurs, directors of writing programs, and students of poetry, at multiple levels. There is always something new to learn for all of us.
You will find people coming from all over the world and all over the United States to gather for this conversation, which we hope will continue for years to come.
Next year's Poetry by the Sea conference takes place from Tuesday, May 22, to Friday, May 25, 2018.
Please join us!
Kim Bridgford
Founder and Director
Poetry by the Sea