A VERY AFFIRMING REVIEW OF THE MAKING OF A POEM PANEL DISCUSSION Thank-you Anne.
Willoughby Literary Festival runs until 27 July 2025 – don’t miss it!
I’m absolutely thrilled to be part of the inaugural Willoughby Literary Festival, proudly hosted by Willoughby City Council!
The first panel discussion, I attended explored the lives and enduring influence of Shirley Hazzard, Elizabeth Harrower, and
Charmian Clift—three remarkable women who overcame challenging childhoods to leave an indelible mark on Australian literature.
Their strength, resilience, and literary brilliance were truly inspiring.
The second panel discussion, delved into the making of a poem.
While I’m not a writer, poetry has always held a special place in my heart –
its ability to distil raw emotion into just a few words never fails to move me.
Anne Casey’s poem laid bare the emotional cost of political injustice, weaving sorrow,
defiance, and the fierce endurance of the female spirit.
Colleen Keating offered a beautiful reflection on memory and family,
using a treasured recipe book to evoke warmth, nostalgia, and love
passed down through generations.
Denise O’Hagan’s The Art of Waiting captured the quiet agony
of sitting beside a seriously ill child – its imagery haunting, honest,
and unforgettable.
These three extraordinary poets – members of the Society of Women Writers,
now celebrating 100 years – left a profound impression.
Anne Greco, Willoughby Councillor
Go to the event program on the library web page and book what’s for you!
https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Events-and-programs/Willoughby-Literary-Festival
#WilloughbyLiteraryFestival
#WilloughbyCouncil
#WomenWriters
