(And a summing up.)
Not meaning to sound negative for its own sake, but because project 366 was an experiment and so I guess everyone's experience is of interest –
Participating in June was a joyous experience for me. I loved the work I was exposed to and the sense of community. I didn't continue longer although Effie invited me to, because of being busy elsewhere; then regretted that and made noises about rejoining, but they went unheard – and it soon became obvious that I really am so busy elsewhere that it's hard to take on more for very long.
Also I already write nearly every day – often every day – and am very much involved in other online poetic groups and communities, so can get some of the benefits elsewhere. (366 had a more carefree feeling than most, probably because it came with fewer responsibilities, and that was particularly delightful.)
Most of that I've said before, but it's part of the account.
I thought I would continue to read and enjoy the posts, particularly as I arranged to do a little behind-the-scenes admin work. But it didn't turn out that way.
One problem was that I had huge internet access problems for a number of weeks, which took time, effort and persistence to sort out. I think, also, not being part of the daily interactions resulted in a gradual distancing.
I want to come back and read things in December, when I expect a bit more free time; and I do hope Project 366 will remain online as an archive, regardless of the creation of an anthology.
I like the idea of an anthology, and will of course hope to be included.
I like the idea of a Project 52. I like the idea of a 'Conversation in Poetry'. And even of a new Project 365. And earlier on I was declaring myself 'in' for such future endeavours. But now I'm reneging. I'm involved in more than enough writing, editing and publishing commitments to be going on with. Sorry!
I wonder what happened to others who participated for a month only. Do they miss it? (I do, but not enough any more – though at first exceedingly.) Or are they so busy with other things that it is largely forgotten? What do they feel they got out of it? (I have already indicated what I did – joy, delight, a strong sense of community – and yes, an experience of being in a poetic conversation, though not as directly and overtly as Kit seems to have had in mind.)
I also wonder what the experience has been for those involved for the whole year?
thanks Rosemary -- yr feedback is v much appreciated ... and I do hope we get everyone's take on how the project was for them
ReplyDeleteTa. :) And I should have mentioned the pleasure of reconnecting with old friends/colleagues amongst the poets participating – and making some lovely new friendships too.
DeleteEnjoyed your account Rosemary and having you in the project. So sorry about the unfortunate glitch when you wanted to come back in. Thanks from me also for your admin contribution. Cheers Lizz
ReplyDeleteI was a 'monther', and the truest thing I can say is that it has been entirely disruptive in my life! But in the best of all possible ways. Writing every day, or at least attempting to, has made me aware of many aspects of my current situation that I am fed up with. For me, poetry has always been about seeking a pure joy of being, of creating. Consequently, it has been a very empowering experience. Throwing into stark relief some disempowering aspects of my job. Spitting the dummy has been fuelled by poetry! Does this make it political? Perhaps in some small way.
ReplyDeleteI looked forward to reading other people's work, and it was wonderful and deeply touching to get some feedback on my own efforts. It was too the last thing I did/read at night. I am awfully busy and did not complete (yet) my full quota, but I will. Thanks for inviting me Kit.