field poetry competetition - Beyond First Impression - What changes when you get to know me?

field invites established and emerging poets to explore the theme Beyond First Impressions: what changes if you get to know me? and to submit pieces for possible inclusion in a collection to be published in both hard copy and online.  field hopes that in working to the theme poets will embark upon a learning experience resulting in a collection that provides a diverse, challenging and enriching experience for its readers.

The theme was inspired by a passage in Rob McNamara’s book, Touching the corners: an autobiography of a disability activist:

“…The speaking engagements I did at schools were the most rewarding.  I would roll into the classroom and the kids would all stop talking and just stare.  I’d let the silence linger and their curiosity, embarrassment and discomfort settle on them.  Then I’d smile, introduce myself and start talking about my life.  I’d talk about the ‘normal and ordinary’ things I liked to do – music, the football, my time at school, being married and our dog, Hafey.  After ten or fifteen minutes, when they’d relaxed and were laughing at my jokes, I’d challenge them to stop and remember what they thought and felt about me when they first saw me.  I’d ask them to tell me about their first impressions and what had changed as they got to know me.” – Rob McNamara

A copy of Rob McNamara’s autobiography can be purchased by completing the online order form on our website or by by contacting Ms. Bev Schutt on 86865621 or by email bev.schutt@field.org.au.

Poems should not exceed 250 words in length, including the title.  No more than three poems will be published by an individual author. Unfortunately no payments can be made for contributions however successful applicants will be provided with a free copy of the final publication.

How to enter

Complete the Entry form and submit application by email, as an attachment in Microsoft Word, to peter.roberts@field.org.au.

Entries are due by 5pm on Monday 20 June, 2011.  Please read the Conditions of Entry for full details.

field aims to promote a culture of learning for people with disability, the disability services workforce and the community to create a more inclusive society.