Not the best few days I’ve ever had. Not the worst either, but I’m hoping things improve fast. On Friday I got an email from Alice Howlett’s mum explaining that Alice was ill and wouldn’t be able to read at the Great Grog on Sunday as planned. Of course, I’ll reschedule her for a future date, and I hope things improve for her soon. I emailed another poet about reading in her place, but she must be away. I’ve heard nothing. However, I have a plan…
Yesterday I took my daughter swimming with the idea of dropping into the Scottish Poetry Library for a ‘poetry and music’ event that was happening all day. We were just heading back to the changing rooms from the pool when I turned and slipped and came crashing down. I landed on my arm. Nothing broken, but I am sore – my wrist, elbow and ribs ache with any sudden movement. Ow! We got up to the SPL about 5.15pm and everything had finished, the doors were locked. I arrived home to a message from Sally and Ian, great supporters of the Great Grog events (I think they have been at every one). Their car has broken down and, as they travel from a distance, they won’t be able to make it this time round.
I’m not superstitious. If I was, I could see this in two ways. Either these events are an omen that the event tonight is ill-fated. Or that it’s going to be a most brilliant evening to balance all the bad stuff up. So superstition is entirely unhelpful, as ever.
Anyway, I’ll be at the Great Grog tonight reading poems along with Hamish Whyte and Kei Miller – from 8pm (The Great Grog Bar’s back lounge, 43 Rose Street, Edinburgh). There may also be another reader (there’s still time) or a special impromptu event I have in mind. Eleanor Livingstone is MC tonight. Eleanor, if you’re reading this, I’ll keep you up to date with events as they unfold today! For now, I have work to do.
