An Evening of Poetry and Reflection: Naomi Shihab Nye

An Evening of Poetry and Reflection

Friday, March 18, 2016, 6:30 – 8:30 pm

*Co-sponsored by St. Catherine University English, Theology, and Women’s Studies Departments

Naomi Shihab Nye believes that poetry calls us to pause. “There is so much we overlook, while the abundance around us continues to shimmer, on its own.” Come listen as Nye reads her poems, reflects on poetry as an act of spiritual devotion, and probes the ways that poetry and literature help open our hearts to one another.

When: Friday, March 18, 6:30 – 8:30 pm. Reception and book signing to follow program.

Where: Coeur de Catherine Ballroom, St Catherine University, 2004 Randolph Ave., St. Paul (map of SCU campus)

The ballroom is located on the 3rd floor of Coeur de Catherine (see map)

Cost: $15.00, free for students with ID

Wandering poet Naomi Shihab Nye has spent 40 years traveling the country and the world leading writing workshops and inspiring students of all ages. Born to a Palestinian father and an American mother, Nye grew up in St. Louis, Jerusalem, and San Antonio. Drawing on her Palestinian-American heritage, the cultural diversity of her home in Texas, and her experiences traveling in Asia, Europe, Canada, Mexico, and the Middle East, Nye uses her writing to attest to our shared humanity.

Being part of multiple cultures shapes her poetry, which lends a fresh perspective to ordinary events, people, and objects. For Nye, “the primary source of poetry has always been local life, random characters met on the streets, our own ancestry sifting down to us through small essential daily tasks.” She is an active voice for Arab-Americans who explores her heritage in her work and speaks out against both terrorism and prejudice.

Presenter:

Naomi Shihab Nye , award winning Palestinian-American Poet, Writer, Anthologist and Educator is the author and/or editor of more than 30 volumes, including poetry, essays, short stories, novels for young readers, and picture books. The Turtle of Oman, her recent novel for children, received three acclaims: Best Book of 2014 by The Horn Book, 2015 Notable Children’s Book by the American Library Association, and the 2015 Middle East Book Award for Youth Literature.