New Orleans Welcomes Brad Richard’s Poetry Collection

News Summary

Local poet Brad Richard celebrates the launch of his new poetry collection, ‘Turned Earth,’ in New Orleans. This 90-page work explores themes of personal reflection and environmental advocacy, resonating with the local community and beyond. Richard’s influence on the poetry scene over 28 years and his successful mentoring of emerging poets adds to the significance of this release. Join the community for the launch event and immerse yourself in the vibrant literary culture of New Orleans.

New Orleans Celebrates the Release of Brad Richard’s New Poetry Collection

In the vibrant city of New Orleans, the literary scene is buzzing with excitement as local poet Brad Richard unveils his latest collection titled “Turned Earth.” Published by LSU Press, this captivating work spans 90 pages filled with rich imagery and thought-provoking themes. It promises to be an engaging read that blends personal reflection with commentary on the world around us.

A Community Fixture for Nearly Three Decades

Brad Richard has been a pillar in the New Orleans literary community for an impressive 28 years. During his time, he has not only crafted his own poetry but has also played a vital role as an educator, teaching at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts and Lusher/Willow. Many budding poets have had the fortune of being mentored by Richard, who brings a nurturing spirit into the classroom, encouraging creativity and exploration. His influence can be seen in the growing number of published poets that call this city home.

A Multifaceted Collection

“Turned Earth” is more than just a collection of poems; it serves as a heartfelt requiem for Richard’s mother, a personal reflection on his beloved garden, and a meditation on the profound responsibilities that both poets and gardeners face in our ever-changing world. Richard’s work infuses his experiences and the realities around him into an accessible and engaging format that resonates deeply with readers. While the speaker in his poems may not be an exact reflection of himself, Richard embraces the playful nature of poetry, which allows for a wonderful departure from strict personal representation.

Growth of the Poetry Scene

Since Richard’s return to New Orleans in 1991, he has witnessed an amazing transformation in the local poetry scene. What used to be a single reading series has blossomed into a decentralized and enriched community, especially in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Events like the New Orleans Poetry Festival have emerged as important cultural celebrations, attracting poets and poetry enthusiasts from all over the nation to appreciate the art form together.

Gardening with Purpose

In addition to his work as a poet, Richard has cultivated a thriving vegetable plot and native plant garden on his lawn over the past 15 years. He now nurtures around 70 species of native plants, which serve as both a nurturing space for local wildlife and a demonstration of the importance of sustainability and environmental care. Richard believes that a garden can act as a community hub, where people come together to learn and grow, while also being a reflective space for oneself.

Crafting Poetry from Nature

His writing style is characterized as primarily lyrical, but Richard has increasingly incorporated elements of documentary poetics in response to the social upheavals following Katrina. By drawing on empirical observations and memories, he shapes his poetry with the complex layering of historical and cultural influences that inform both his work and his perspective on the world.

Environmental Advocacy

Richard is also committed to environmental advocacy, volunteering at a pollinator garden at the Jazz Museum, a project he has been directly involved with. With this initiative, he promotes the importance of biodiversity and takes active steps to support the ecosystem in New Orleans.

Mark Your Calendar!

To celebrate the launch of “Turned Earth,” an exciting event is scheduled for March 8 at 3 p.m. at The Broadside, located at 600 N. Broad St., New Orleans. This will be a terrific opportunity for the community to come together, enjoy poetry and reflect on the significance of Richard’s latest work. So, be sure to mark your calendars for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of creativity and connection!

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Additional Resources

• The Advocate: New Orleans Celebrates the Release of Brad Richard’s New Poetry Collection
• Wikipedia: New Orleans
• Business Insider: Sexiest Man Alive
• Google Search: Brad Richard poetry
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• Encyclopedia Britannica: Poetry
• NPR: Poetry
• Google News: New Orleans Poetry Scene