Help create Isle of Man Poetry Map

Capture your Isle of Man in poetry.

That is the invitation from UNESCO Biosphere Isle of Man, Culture Vannin and The Manx Bard.

The organisations are collaborating to compile a Poetry Map of the Isle of Man, as a lasting resource for all to enjoy.

Poems of 15 lines and under are invited about Isle of Man’s environment, nature, wildlife, biodiversity, habitats, landscape.

They will appear on a click and read map on Culture Vannin’s website.

It’s hoped people of all ages will take part.

The challenge is being launched to coincide with Manx national poet and first Manx Bard T.E Brown’s birth date (Sunday 5th May).

Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: ‘UNESCO recognised the Isle of Man is a special place in awarding us Biosphere status.

‘Our culture has shaped that and is key to telling its story, too.

‘We invite our creative community to submit poems about their favourite places and photos of the locations that inspired them.’

James Franklin, Online and Educational Resources Officer with Culture Vannin, said: ‘The Isle of Man means many things to different people, but so much to all of us.

‘The poetry map is a way for us all to celebrate all of these different aspects and places of the Island that mean so much to us, and to reinforce our engagement with and appreciation of our home.’

Current Manx Bard Annie Kissack said: ‘Over the years, this Island has inspired many poets who have attempted to capture in words the special aspects of this beautiful place. My advice to aspiring poets is; don’t speak to the Island but let it speak to you.’

The Poetry Map already features poems from Manx Bards appointed since the honour was created in 2014 (with support from the Isle of Man Arts Council).

To study the full rules and enter online, click here.

When visiting sites and taking photos, poets are asked to be mindful of the Isle of Man Government’s Code for Birdwatchers and Photographers.

All suitable poems submitted will appear on the Poetry Map.

A winner and three runners-up will also receive beautiful hand-carved awards. These poems will be published by Isle of Man Newspapers.

The deadline to take part in the Poetry Map is Friday 26th July 2019.

For more information, follow the three organisations’ social media pages.