A Multilingual Poetry Circle
A gathering to listen to and
recite poetry,
and to connect with each other,
our stories, our reflections, our
joys and our pains in poetic and
empathic ways.
Aspirations and purpose
In a symbolic way, Heartsong of Friendship turns into
trees whose shades become a space for connection
and togetherness, a refuge in literature during easy
and hard times, a place to find strength, inspiration
and care.
At times Heartsong of Friendship invigorates the
sounds of the beauty of different languages to reach
our ears, celebrates the expression of personal
stories or poems, and cherishes the wisdom in diverse
cultures and traditions. And at times, Heartsong of
Friendship becomes gentle drops of water that
nourish our imagination and remind us of our
connected roots – as narrators and poets, as friends,
and possibly, as the characters of a shared
magnificent story.
It immerses us in an ocean of beauty, poetry, sound,
music, and togetherness, and gives us a ride on the
waves of poetry and music, until the waves form a
mutual dance of joy and pain, a dance in which joy and
pain can become one and lose their meaning.
And then, a l that remains becomes friendship.
What happens during the gathering?
We gather in a circle to read and listen to poetry together. Poems may come from different cultures, languages and traditions.
We experience moments of silence, conversation and personal reflection. You may share a poem yourself, respond to what you hear, or simply be present and join as a listening participant.
How to prepare?
All are welcome and
encouraged to recite a poem
or a piece of literature of any
kind that is in line with the
aspirations of Heartsong of
Friendship.
All are welcome to recite in languages other
than English or Dutch. If you choose to do so, it
can be helpful if you also recite a translation
of it or a short summary in English. (Only if that
is possible for you.)
You are also encouraged to bring a paper and pen with you, as we may explore some creative writing together.
Practical information
Language: Main language of communication will be English. (It is possible to speak Dutch if speaking English is no available to you.)
Upcoming monthly In-Person Gatherings
Dates :
Sunday 11 October 2026, 14:30 – 16:30 (Arrival from 14:15)
Saturday 14 November 2026, 14:30- 16:30 (Arrival from 14:15)
Saturday 12 December 2026, 14:30 – 16:30 (Arrival from 14:15)
Location: Arc van Oost (Exposure Zaal), Nijmegen
Online Gatherings:
Time: Every Wednesday 8 – 9:30pm
Place: Zoom
Zoom link will be shared upon registration
Register
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