In northeast Tennessee, fall is a time to observe waves of color peaks running up mountain terrain, followed by russet and brown fade into winter’s silver gray. Northwest Florida falls hit different, quickly moving from green to yellow, even straight to brown. Both regions feature bird migrations, and I’ve enjoyed quiet mornings discovering the sights and sounds of avian residents and tourists alike. Many species here also call my Tennessee corner home; I’ve also been reunited with winged Florida friends I’ve not seen since fall of 2006. What wonder awaits when we pay attention!
As I write this outdoors, not three feet away a wren hops and flits on a grassy surround. In these moments, I often wonder what wisdom Mary Oliver would offer after observing such a moment. What might I?
On this brilliant blue, cloudless, cool October day, I think more Mary is in order. If you have not yet experienced Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World, the next couple of weeks would be a great time as warm up for our upcoming fall programs. Our next two presenters are inspired by and will include her work, along with other noted poets, as they explore complementary topics. In November, MF Drummy will present “Attention is the beginning of devotion”: Finding Poetry in the Silence. In December, Stacey Lounsberry will present Finding and Refining Image in Poetry. (Members, you will have access to replays if you cannot attend.) Many thanks to our Programs Chair and Board member Jeffrey Heath who has curated such interesting programs since taking on the role. I’m excited about what else he has in store for us!
Here are a few more ways to connect with poetic happenings and opportunities in the coming month:
- Our FALL ROUNDUP identifies all manner of poetic happenings and opportunities.
- Our 70th Annual Poetry Festival contests are open through December 15! Try one or all of our 21 contests.
- Try one of our eclectic members-only contests. November features a form contests, as sponsor Diane Clark seeks ballads. Entries accepted November 1-15. For more details follow the link.
- Mary Oliver: Saved by the Beauty of the World is worth a watch.
- Tennessee Voices Anthology , 2025-2026 is available. (Also, check out books available from our member authors when you click the link.)
I invite you to join us November for our next monthly member meeting. Afterward, we will announce monthly contest winners and share our poetry. Bring a poem or two. I hope to see there.
With anticipation—
Lisa Kamolnick
President, Poetry Society of Tennessee
