Poetry and the Pandemic: A Reading and Conversation with the Aladdin Poets

The Aladdin Poets—Peter Fortunato, Laura Glenn, Gail Holst-Warhaft, Jack Hopper—read poems composed during the time of the Pandemic, and answer audience questions. 

All four poets are widely published and locally active, and recognize in presenting this event, how people everywhere have turned to poetry for consolation and as a means of expression in these trying times. 

The Aladdin Poets group has met regularly to discuss one another’s work for two decades and has included a rotating roster of accomplished Ithaca poets. Currently, two former Tompkins County Poets Laureate are among the four.

Peter Fortunato is an author and artist, a ceremony maker, and a hypnotherapist in private practice. His most recent book is the novel, Carnevale. He has lived in Ithaca for most of his life.

Laura Glenn has published a book of poems I Can't Say I'm Lost with FootHills Publishing, and a chapbook of poems, When the Ice Melts with Finishing Line Press. Also a visual artist, she works as a freelance copy editor.

Gail Holst-Warhaft is a poet,  prose-writer, and translator of Greek literature. She has published two volumes of poetry, Penelope’s Confession and Lucky Country. Her latest book is The House with the Scorpions.

Jack Hopper served twice as Tompkins County Poet Laureate 2015-2016 and is one of the founder-editors of Cayuga Lake Books. 

The Community Arts Partnership presents the 13th annual Spring Writes Literary Festival, from May 5 to May 15 this year! See the line-up of events and artist bios at www.SpringWrites.org. Please share this event with your book- and poetry-loving friends!

This event will be offered via Zoom. Participants registered here will receive an email with details on how to access the meeting the day before the event. If you have any questions, please contact Sophia McKissick at smckissick@tcpl.org.