Here’s an invitation to a poetry reading that’s also an invitation to spend time in an exquisite world tucked into our thrumming city.

On Saturday, October 12th,
I’ll give a reading from 2 to 3 pm
as part of the Steeped in Words Poetry Series
at the Lan Su Chinese Garden,
239 NW Everett Street, Portland 97209.

Yes, the heart of Portland’s Old Town contains one of Portland’s true gems: Lan Su, our own Chinese Garden. Beautiful at any time of the year, Lan Su is especially lovely in early fall. So……..I’m urging you to spend an October Saturday afternoon in this serene and inspiring place, an afternoon given over to the Garden’s charms and poetry.

Why poetry? Well, for the Chinese, a garden without poetry is not a complete garden. A true Chinese garden contains five elements: rocks, architecture, water, plants, and poetry. The Lan Su Garden is indeed a true garden. It’s filled with poetry: above and along the sides of entryways, on stones, on panels, and on pillars inside rooms. Each Lan Su building has its poetic name. What better place to host a poetry reading?

I’d be delighted and honored if you were there for my reading. The reading is free with admission to the Garden, and—of course—free to Lan Su members.

That day, please come to Lan Su well before the reading and stay there afterward. Spend a leisurely afternoon. In addition to my reading, Lan Su will offer traditional Chinese music and Chinese calligraphy that day.

Hoping to see you in Poetry’s Garden on October 12th,

Paulann