I don’t remember Julia’s poetry, but I heartily recommend Esther Kamkar’s work to anyone in the Bay Area. She’s one of my favorite poets on the SF Peninsula, really amazing. It’s like watching someone carefully bleed themselves and make wine out of the blood, or something. She has this particular intensity and delicacy, especially in describing the darker sides of human relationships, and is never boring. I think she writes at times in Persian as well as in English.
From JC Watson, the MC for this month:
Hello to all my dears who are drenched by rain and darkness!
Friday night, March 10th, 06, brings some RELIEF!
Two Unforgettable Poets, ESTHER KAMKAR and JULIA SIMONE ALTER
will read their work at Art 21 Gallery, corner of Hamilton and Alma,
in Palo Alto at 7:30 p.m..I promise Enthrallment for all.
MZ JC Watson will emcee and provide good food and drink.
(No Shrimp Chips here!)So, get under that umbrella and light up your soul!
Parking is easily had in the garage, just a stone’s
throw north of the Gallery.
JC Watson’s own poetry is excellent, as I’ve mentioned on this blog before. She’s well worth hearing. The Art 21 open mike is friendly and welcoming; it’s usually around 10-12 people reading a couple of poems each. Quality varies, but sincerity and variety abounds!