Our Approach
The purpose of the group  is to offer a forum for active poets interested in improving their work and gaining feedback in a supportive environment.  Poets who want to improve their technique and are willing to share their fascination and enjoyment of writing poetry are very welcome. (There are limits on numbers  to ensure time for quality feedback.)   Members write in a variety of styles and on a wide range of subjects.  All styles are welcome; no viewpoints are excluded.

Members give poetry readings locally and around the country. Some members have had collections published; some enter competitions and a number have won prizes.  None of these activities is compulsory.  Some are content to write for the pleasure of sharing their writing.

Public Events: Poetry Readings, Open Mic slots, Open Mic evenings
We hold evening poetry readings on Zoom for the present on the first Thursday of the month. Both up and coming and established poets are invited to read their work.

At Guest Readings there is one featured poet. There are always some Open Mic slots available and anyone wishing to read their own work is invited to pre-book at www.fireriverpoets.org.uk First come first served.

At Open-Mic evenings there is no single guest poet; the evening is devoted to Open Mic readers – again, anyone wishing to read their own work is invited to pre-book on the website.   

Competitions
In the past we have organised competitions, including some specifically for young people.  Several of our members have organised or participated in projects including sponsoring international competitions, organising liaison between poets and artists, and running workshops for budding poets of all ages. We have also published three anthologies of members’ poetry.

Members’ Meetings
Enrolled members meet once or twice a month in a member’s house, usually on Zoom.  Members read one of their poems and a discussion follows.  The aim is to provide thoughtful, positive criticism.  Members can also read a poem by a favourite or established poet for discussion. Social events for members are arranged  on an occasional basis.

Readings, Workshops & Commissions
Members of the group are available to give readings or offer poetry workshops at events run by other  organisations.  Some members have been commissioned to write poems on a particular theme for special occasions, such as weddings,  christenings or birthdays.  Get in touch re availability.  Members have also been invited to give talks on aspects of poetry, or, in one case, read a poem on BBC Radio 4’s flagship Today programme.  Members have also represented the group and read their work on Local Radio in Taunton.