Canada Korea Literary Festival

 

At the Canada Korea Literary Festival,

a well organized, professional event,

I had the privilege of reciting

and I’m very pleased I went.

 

A comprehensive printed program

in both languages, was provided,

(a souvenir worth keeping)

as through the evening we were guided.

 

The evening started with a reception,

very tasty food had been prepared.

Then, stories, poems, music, dance

and videos were all shared.

 

I haven’t heard much Korean spoken before,

I find it has a pleasing flow,

melodious sounds, soft-spoken.

It would be difficult for me to learn, I know.

 

Background music and slide shows

accompanied each performer.

Many hours spent putting it all together

had created an atmosphere much warmer.

 

My poem “Sixty Years Young”,

from my book Morning Light,

was translated into Korean

and a lovely lady was there to recite.

 

I think the two boys may have stolen the show –

wonderful talent – reciting and singing.

Then our MC surprised us all

when his powerful voice turned to singing.

 

Congratulations, KWAC!

It was a most enjoyable evening out

combining cultures and languages –

that’s what Canada is all about.

 

Jean Kay

poetrytoinspire.com

 

KWAC – Korean Writers Association of Canada