Runokuu/Poetry Moon gets visitors from the UK: Bent Key Publishing brings some of their wonderful writers to the stage!
Bent Key is an indie press in England amplifying marginalised voices, with many of their writers being queer, neurodivergent, disabled, Black/Brown, or all of the above. In 2022, Bent Key was shortlisted for a Saboteur Award for Most Innovative Publisher. The publisher has also participated in international festivals, including the New York City Poetry Festival, and now they’re part of the Runokuu/Poetry Moons lineup too!
The publishing house’s ethos is to ensure that all talent is offered opportunity and that nobody with passion and a good manuscript is priced out of writing their story. They champion neurodiverse artists and writers from other marginalised groups, particularly those who face difficulties in accessing traditional publishing due to dyslexia or other needs.
Many of Bent Key’s poets are born out of Northern Britain’s spoken word culture. Their performances echo both personal and political issues, with a captivating and humorous spirit that is common in of poetry slam events. Bent Key’s performances draw from the experiences of the British working class, the politics of caretaking, and the queer way of life. Ultimately, Bent Key’s poetry offers a panoramic view of the everyday life of marginalised individuals in post-Brexit Britain.
Performers of the event:
Rebecca Kenny (UK)
Stevie Turner (UK)
Charlie Parker (UK)
Caitlin McKenna (UK)
The event is free of charge!