As Nick Morgan presents his war-torn writing at the monthly poetry open-mic in Nederland, his voice is loud and clear, he holds himself straight and firm, and he makes eye contact with the audience.
He speaks confidently about his personal experiences in joining the Army, going to war in Baghdad, and his silent return home. There are many realities and struggles he expresses — which he does so in a way that the audience too experiences them — yet he always comes to a resolution, a conclusion, an empowerment where not all is lost (yes, life is hard) but strength is earned.
“Writing is a good way to process experiences that are hard to talk about and difficult to convey,” said Morgan, U.S. Army 2004-2006. “Sometimes writing is a way to communicate with the self, to clear some head space, and get some concrete thoughts down on paper.”
“It’s one of those rare opportunities for veterans to express themselves on their first-hand experiences,” said Morgan. “Rarely do we get an uncut version of what that sounds like in the public discourse.”
The Veterans Writing Initiative of Boulder County is hosting a public reading on Sunday November 20th from 1-3pm at the Boulder Public Library, and they are calling for submissions from all military veterans. All military veterans, from any era, are invited to share their experiences through spoken word.
“It’s one of those rare opportunities for veterans to express themselves on their first-hand experiences,” said Morgan. “Rarely do we get an uncut version of what that sounds like in the public discourse.”
Writing must be original fiction or nonfiction, poetry, prose, journal entries, letters home, complete works, and/or experts from longer pieces. Any writing can be submitted that reflects personal service-related experiences. Individuals may submit up to 4 pieces, but each must be limited to about 10 minutes; which generally means about 5-8 written pages.
Veterans are invited to read their own work at this event. If they are unable to attend or prefer to remain anonymous, their work can be read by others. There will be at least one rehearsal prior to the event.
“The reading will be a safe place to share vulnerable and heavy things,” said Morgan. “We want to assure a comfortable environment where the participants will be treated with honor and respect.”
Writers will retain complete ownership and rights to their work.
Deadline for submissions is Friday, November 11th.
Submissions, questions, and comments can be sent to: veteranswritingco@gmail.com
“A lot of my writings are just for me,” said Morgan. “This reading is an opportunity to present to the public a communication and a dialogue.”
Boulder Poetry Scene 