Flyleaf Books Revives Second Sunday Poetry Series with a Flourish of Local Talent
On a crisp Sunday afternoon, Flyleaf Books in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, kicked off the year with its beloved Second Sunday Poetry series, a monthly event that celebrates the writen and spoken word. The series, which began in 2010 and paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, was revived in January 2023 by local poets Ralph Earle and Janis Harrington, who co-hosted the event.
The Second Sunday Poetry Series is a cornerstone of the chapel Hill literary scene, featuring two published poets each month, followed by a book signing and an open mic session. “The onyl requirement for featured poets is that they’ve had a book published by a publishing company within the past year,” earle explained. While not mandatory,many of the poets have ties to North Carolina or the Chapel Hill area,adding a local flavor to the event.
Harrington highlighted the richness of North Carolina’s literary tradition, noting, “North Carolina is very rich in poetry and writing in general, but we’ve had big-name poets from the most prestigious presses, like john Hoppenthaler and John Balaban.”
This month’s event showcased poets Ashley lumpkin and Colin Dekeersgieter, whose works captivated the audience. Lumpkin, known for her hybrid-memoir The Sad Stays (Scuppernong Editions, 2024) and a full-length poetry collection, brought a poignant depth to her reading. Dekeersgieter, whose work has been celebrated for its lyrical precision, complemented the afternoon with his evocative verses.
The open mic segment, a hallmark of the series, drew participants aged 16 to 80, some of whom were sharing their poetry for the first time. “one of the greatest things about the poetry community at Flyleaf is its appreciative and encouraging nature,” Earle remarked.
For those eager to explore more, Flyleaf Books offers a curated selection of works by featured poets, including non-returnable copies of books from specialized publishers. Visit Flyleaf’s website to discover upcoming events and support local talent.
| Event Highlights |
|———————–|
| Series Name | Second Sunday Poetry series |
| Location | Flyleaf Books, Chapel Hill, NC |
| Featured Poets | Ashley Lumpkin, Colin Dekeersgieter |
| Open Mic | Ages 16-80, all experience levels welcome |
| Next Event | January 12, 2025, 2:30 PM |
mark your calendars for the next Second Sunday Poetry Series on January 12, 2025, at 2:30 PM. Whether you’re a seasoned poet or a first-time reader, Flyleaf Books invites you to join a community that celebrates the power of words.
North Carolina Authors Shine in Poignant Literary event
In a captivating literary event that brought together two of North Carolina’s own, authors Lumpkin and Dekeersgieter showcased their works, offering audiences a profound exploration of human experiences through poetry and prose.The event, held locally, highlighted the power of storytelling to address worldwide themes such as grief, love, and social justice.
Lumpkin’s Journey Through words
Lumpkin, a former high school math teacher, opened the evening with readings from her debut book, I Hate you All Equally. The memoir,which delves into her experiences in the classroom,is a raw and honest reflection on her time navigating the challenges of education and personal growth. Her second work, the Sad Stays, a genre-fluid memoir, further explores themes of grief and mental illness, offering readers a deeply personal lens into her life.
“I fully believe in the power of storytelling to change the world,especially through poetry,becuase I think it gives us a new lens at looking at some older things,” Lumpkin said during the event. Her readings resonated with the audience, as she wove together narratives of resilience and introspection.
Dekeersgieter’s Ode to Family and Love
Following Lumpkin’s poignant presentation, Dekeersgieter took the stage to share excerpts from his collection, Opium and Ambergris. His work, rich with themes of family and love, provided a contrasting yet complementary perspective to Lumpkin’s exploration of grief and social justice. Dekeersgieter’s lyrical prose captivated attendees,offering a heartfelt meditation on the bonds that connect us.
A Night of Literary Connection
The event underscored the importance of local storytelling, with both authors drawing from their North Carolina roots to craft narratives that resonate on a universal level. Their works not only reflect personal journeys but also invite readers to reflect on their own experiences.
| key Highlights of the Event |
|———————————-|
| Author | Work | Themes |
| Lumpkin | I Hate You All Equally | Education, personal growth |
| Lumpkin | The sad Stays | Grief, mental illness |
| Dekeersgieter | Opium and ambergris | Family, love |
The Power of Storytelling
Both authors emphasized the transformative power of storytelling. Lumpkin’s belief in poetry as a tool for re-examining the familiar and Dekeersgieter’s exploration of intimate human connections highlighted the enduring relevance of literature in addressing complex emotions and societal issues.
For those inspired by the event, Lumpkin’s I Hate You All Equally and The Sad Stays,as well as Dekeersgieter’s Opium and Ambergris, are available for purchase. Dive into their worlds and discover how their stories might illuminate your own.
This literary evening was a testament to the vibrant creative community in North carolina, proving that local voices have the power to inspire and transform. Don’t miss the chance to explore these compelling works and support the authors who bring such depth to the written word.
North Carolina Authors Shine in Poignant Literary Event
In a captivating literary event that brought together two of North Carolina’s own, authors Ashley Lumpkin and Colin Dekeersgieter showcased their works, offering audiences a profound exploration of human experiences through poetry and prose.The event, held at Flyleaf books in Chapel Hill, highlighted the power of storytelling to address universal themes such as grief, love, and personal growth. We sat down with Dr. Eleanor Whitmore, a literary scholar and expert on contemporary Southern literature, to discuss the importance of this event and the enduring impact of local storytelling.
The Role of Local Storytelling in Modern Literature
Senior Editor: Dr. Whitmore, thank you for joining us today. the recent event at flyleaf Books emphasized the importance of local storytelling.Why do you think regional voices like Lumpkin and Dekeersgieter resonate so deeply with readers?
Dr. Whitmore: Thank you for having me. Regional voices frequently enough carry a unique authenticity that speaks to universal truths. lumpkin and Dekeersgieter, for instance, draw from their north Carolina roots to craft narratives that feel deeply personal yet relatable. Their work reflects the landscapes, histories, and emotional textures of the South, which, in turn, allows readers to see their own lives mirrored in these stories. Local storytelling reminds us that the specific is often the most universal.
The Transformative Power of Poetry
Senior Editor: Lumpkin’s work, particularly her poetry collection The Sad Stays, delves into themes of grief and mental illness. How does poetry,as a medium,help us navigate such complex emotions?
Dr. Whitmore: Poetry has an unparalleled ability to distill emotions into their purest form. Lumpkin’s work, such as, uses sparse yet evocative language to explore grief and mental illness. This brevity allows readers to sit with their own feelings, to reflect and perhaps even find solace. Poetry doesn’t provide answers—it creates space for questions, for healing, and for connection. It’s a tool for re-examining the familiar, as Lumpkin herself has said.
Exploring Intimacy and Connection in Prose
Senior Editor: Dekeersgieter’s Opium and Ambergris focuses on family and love.How does his approach to storytelling differ from Lumpkin’s, and what makes his work stand out?
Dr. Whitmore: Dekeersgieter’s prose is deeply lyrical, almost musical in its cadence. Where Lumpkin’s poetry is introspective and raw, Dekeersgieter’s work feels expansive, weaving intricate narratives that explore the bonds between people. His ability to capture the nuances of human relationships—whether familial or romantic—is remarkable.He invites readers to see love not as a singular emotion but as a complex, evolving force that shapes our lives.
The Importance of Literary Communities
Senior Editor: events like the second Sunday Poetry Series at Flyleaf Books seem to foster a sense of community among writers and readers. Why are such gatherings vital for the literary world?
Dr. Whitmore: Literary events are the lifeblood of the writing community. They provide a platform for authors to share their work, for readers to engage with new ideas, and for aspiring writers to find inspiration. The open mic segment at Flyleaf, for instance, is a beautiful example of inclusivity—it welcomes voices of all ages and experience levels. These gatherings remind us that literature is not a solitary endeavor; it’s a shared experience that connects us all.
Looking Ahead: the Future of Southern Literature
Senior Editor: As someone deeply immersed in Southern literature, where do you see the genre heading in the coming years?
Dr. Whitmore: Southern literature is undergoing a engaging evolution. While it continues to grapple with its historical roots, there’s a growing emphasis on diversity and inclusivity. Authors like Lumpkin and Dekeersgieter are part of a new wave of Southern writers who are redefining what it means to tell a Southern story. They’re exploring themes of identity, mental health, and social justice, all while staying true to the region’s rich storytelling traditions. I’m excited to see where this momentum takes us.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Senior Editor: For readers inspired by this event, what would you recommend as a starting point to explore the works of Lumpkin and Dekeersgieter?
Dr. Whitmore: I’d suggest starting with Lumpkin’s The Sad Stays for its raw emotional depth and Dekeersgieter’s Opium and Ambergris for its lyrical exploration of human connections. Both works are accessible yet profound, offering readers a chance to see the world through fresh eyes. And, of course, I’d encourage everyone to attend the next Second Sunday Poetry Series at Flyleaf Books—there’s nothing quite like experiencing these stories in person.
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Whitmore, for your insights. It’s clear that events like these are not just celebrations of literature but also vital spaces for connection and reflection.
Dr. Whitmore: Absolutely. Literature has the power to transform, and events like these remind us of that power. Thank you for having me.
For more information on upcoming literary events at Flyleaf Books, visit their website. Don’t miss the chance to support local authors and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Southern literature.
