Poetry in a pandemic from the people of Doncaster who used the virus and isolation as themes in their work

During the first lockdown in 2020, Read 2 Write, a community led group of Doncaster based poets moved their weekly Balby Library and Mexborough group meetings online.

The move online was made so that they could continue to create and discuss poetry and stay bonded as a group, during the pandemic.

This was supported by Right Up Our Street and led by Mick Jenkinson.

Together with Read 2 Write we have worked to capture and celebrate some of their creativity.

Along with a number of recognized guest poets, members of the group were invited to submit two poems that would go on to feature within a new printed anthology ‘View From a Locked-Down Land’.

This book has now, we’re delighted to say, been launched.

Commenting on the book, Project Director for Right Up Our Street Sally Lockey said:“RUOS was there from the outset of Read 2 Write and what makes this project so special is that this dedicated and well respected group of Poets no longer needs RUOS to make great things happen.

"Roles have been reversed, with projects such as ‘View From a Locked-Down Land’ now supporting our work in reaching new audiences and those most at risk of social isolation”.

Care home residents across Doncaster will also receive a copy of the Read 2 Write poetry anthology ‘View From a Locked-Down Land’ along with prompts, that encourage recipients to reply with their own words.

Through this call and response approach we now hope to work with Read 2 Write members to select a range of new poems that feature within a second community led anthology.

To read ‘View From a Locked-Down Land’, visit our website at www.rightupourstreet.org.uk/viewfromalockeddownland

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.