Cascadian Zen Poetry Events to Highlight Bioregional Culture in British Columbia

Watershed Press, in collaboration with the Seattle-based nonprofit Cascadia Poetics Lab, is set to host a series of events across British Columbia this August to celebrate the release of their poetry anthology 'Cascadian Zen Vol. I'. These gatherings aim to showcase the rich cultural and ecological tapestry of the Cascadia bioregion through poetry, discussions, and readings.

The anthology 'Cascadian Zen Vol. I' features works from notable artists and authors throughout Cascadia, a region encompassing parts of the Pacific Northwest of the United States and southwestern Canada. The collection explores the intricate relationships between the local ecosystem, Zen practice, and the broader questions these topics evoke.

The event series kicks off on August 22 at the Mountain Rain Zen Community in Vancouver, BC. From 7-9 PM PDT, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the anthology's editors Paul Nelson, Adelia MacWilliam, and Jason Wirth, alongside esteemed Canadian poet Daphne Marlatt. This gathering sets the stage for a weekend of literary exploration and cultural exchange.

Following the Vancouver event, the Abbey Studio in Cumberland, BC will host a full weekend of talks and readings on August 24-25. This expanded program will feature Indigenous elder Wedlidi Speck and poet/philosopher Jan Zwicky, providing diverse perspectives on the themes of Cascadian Zen. The editors will also be present, facilitating discussions and sharing insights into the anthology's creation and significance.

The final event in this series will take place at the Community Hall on Quadra Island, BC on August 26, from 7-9 PM PDT. This closing gathering will showcase the talents of Jan Zwicky and poet/typographer Robert Bringhurst, along with the anthology's editors, offering a final opportunity for attendees to delve into the intersections of poetry, philosophy, and regional identity.

These events are significant not only for their literary merit but also for their potential to strengthen community ties and promote a deeper understanding of the Cascadia bioregion. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the Cascadian Zen events aim to foster a sense of place and encourage reflection on the relationships between humans and their environment.

The Cascadia Poetics Lab, founded in 1993, has long been dedicated to empowering individuals through poetry and deepening connections to place, self, and the present moment. This event series represents a continuation of that mission, offering a platform for both established and emerging voices to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about regional identity and ecological consciousness.

For those interested in attending, all events are free and open to the public. More information about the Cascadian Zen events can be found on the Cascadia Poetics Lab website. These gatherings present a unique opportunity for residents of British Columbia and poetry enthusiasts to engage with thought-provoking works that celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of the Cascadia bioregion.

As the world grapples with environmental challenges and questions of cultural identity, initiatives like the Cascadian Zen anthology and its associated events offer a creative approach to fostering community engagement and ecological awareness. Through the lens of poetry and Zen practice, participants are invited to explore new perspectives on their relationship with the land and each other, potentially inspiring a more mindful and connected approach to regional stewardship.