Bachelardian Poetic Evenings

It can be hard to know how to move from the rhythm of the workweek to the pace of the weekend. These Friday poetry evenings offer a beautiful way to slow down and reconnect.

Inspired by Gaston Bachelard and his luminous writings on the four elements, we’ll explore our memories and experiences of air, water, earth and fire - and notice how our imagination transforms them into something new.

Bachelard is one of France’s most remarkable philosophers. After devoting the first part of his career to the philosophy of science, he turned to the phenomenology of poetry, asking how it feels to create and to read poetry. Among his many works are Air and Dreams, Water and Dreams, Earth and Reveries of Will, Earth and Reveries of Repose, and The Flame of a Candle.

Each of these Friday evenings will be dedicated to one element. We’ll listen to extracts from Bachelard’s work (the English translations are excellent!) and reconnect with that element through a creative writing experience. Everyone will have time to write, and you may share your text only if you wish to in the moment. ✨

Bookings are through the Christchurch WEA website - the taster session last month filled up quickly, so be sure to book early if you’d like to join! 💫

Four fortnightly Fridays starting 20th February, 6–8pm, $51

At the WEA, Christchurch 🌿