Poetry by the Sea: A Global Conference

Poetry by the Sea: A Global Conference is an enriching event held at the picturesque Mercy Conference Center in Madison, Connecticut. This annual conference is dedicated to fostering creativity and inclusiveness within the poetry community, welcoming poets, educators, and readers from across the United States and beyond. The event aims to support artistic excellence and creative growth through a variety of engaging activities including lectures, readings, panels, workshops, and the awarding of poetry prizes.

Attendees will find themselves in an environment that values each individual's unique contribution and voice, making it an ideal locale for inspiration and idea exchange.

Throughout the conference, participants can engage in workshops that range from three-day intensives focusing on craft techniques, to two-day explorations of specific themes, and one-day sessions on developing creative practices or assembling chapbooks. Notable keynote speakers and spotlight readers at past conferences have included acclaimed figures such as former U.S.

Poet Laureate Rita Dove, Greg Pardlo, and Kevin Young. This year's highlights include Major Jackson as the lecturer and Stephanie Burt as the keynote speaker. Attendees will also enjoy informal meals with faculty and guest poets, fostering connections and discussions in a relaxed setting. Evening readings by the faculty are open to local community members, further bridging the gap between conference participants and the wider public.

In addition to the workshops and readings, participants can look forward to special events like catered receptions and banquets, enhancing the camaraderie among attendees. The conference not only celebrates established poets but also recognizes new voices through poetry contests and the acknowledgment of recent publications. With its commitment to providing a nurturing space for artistic expression, Poetry by the Sea stands out as a significant event for anyone interested in the art of poetry.