Beautiful poetry, and music as well, bounced off the walls of the student center small ballroom during the James Baker Hall Series on Oct. 13. The series dedicates itself to honoring writers who have been raised or influenced by living in Kentucky. The series is named after Kentucky writer and UK faculty member, James Baker Hall.
Kentucky writers presented their experiences, heartaches, and own life humors to the audience. Prose and poetry writer, Erik Reece, was the first writer to take the stand. Raised in Louisville, KY and receiving two degrees from the University of Kentucky, Reece still lives his life as a resident of Kentucky. The first and inspiring piece he read was his own Lost Mountain. The piece spoke of the tragedies of mountaintop removal as well as the life of a working man.
Following his readings, Reece introduced a fellow who he showed much respect for, Lexington singer and song writer, Warren Byrom. Byrom talked about the great influences Reece and other Appalachia writers had on his music, and even at times contributed some lyrics. Byrom’s first song was actually the late James Baker Hall’s poem That Kite.
Byrom’s performance brought memories to Kentucky’s Poet Laureate, Maureen Morehead, of her high school days singing anti-vietnam songs with friends. Her first reading included a poem called The Maps, a poem with spirituality she claims really grabs her. Morehead also read a personal poem speaking on the “scandalous” experiences of young girls.
The next of the Baker Hall Series will be held on October 27th
Baker Hall Series Brings Both Poetry and Music to Life
October 13, 2011
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