Since 2017, Maitland’s Verses Poets-in-residence programhas become a mainstay in the city’s creative and cultural landscape.

Compiled and profiled by local writer and artist Matt Petherbridge, Verses: The First Stanza stands as a historical document for the program. The First Stanza pulls back the curtain on the creative process and motivations of the current Verses poets and their poetry.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused major restrictions on the hospitality industry, which side-lined the project indefinitely. The Verses poets’ ability to connect with the community and to promote themselves and the program became unfeasible during this difficult time.

Like poetry, a well-placed breath gives room for thought and perspective. What better opportunity than this to explore the story of Verses.

Join Maitland Verses Poet Emeritus Pip Sheehan in discussion with writer and artist Matt Petherbridge as they discuss the history of Verses, Matt’s writing journey, the inspiration for the book, the COVID-19 pandemic and the future of the program.