Community Gathers at Commonplace Books’ first Spring Poetry Salon

Writer, Emily De Angelis, reading one of her poems at Spring Poetry Salon & Open-Mic 2026. (Kyrah Smith photo)

Kyrah Smith, Echo Correspondent

In honour of National Poetry Month, Ingersoll’s independent bookstore, Commonplace Books, hosted its first-ever Spring Poetry Salon and community Open Mic on April 17. Running from 6 to 8 p.m., the event drew a full house, welcoming attendees from across adult generations.

The event was presented with support from the Canada Council for the Arts and The Writers’ Union of Canada.

Several talented authors headlined the evening (some with local ties), including Emily De Angelis, Nathaniel Luscombe, Irina Moga and Mary Anne Griffins. The event was introduced and moderated by author and editor Suzanne Craig-Whytock. Readings spanned a wide range of themes, from lighthearted and comedic reflections to seasonal imagery and deeply personal explorations.

De Angelis, an author from Sudbury, Ontario, closed out the readings with a message of encouragement for fellow writers. “I want to say, be fearless and protective when it comes to your work,” she shared. “Regardless of what that work is, or how much fame you may get, life is about encountering creativity.”

Following the readings, the audience responded with enthusiastic applause before settling in for a question-and-answer session. The authors offered insight into their creative processes and shared advice for new aspiring poets.

“I find that poetry comes easiest when I have an idea or a component in my life that I want to explore,” explains local author Luscombe. “A lot of poetry is based on emotion or your reaction to something.”

“Life comes at you from all angles,” added Moga. “Enjoy it and mine those moments into poetry.”

“Just write,” encouraged Griffins. “Don’t worry about what your pen is doing; just write. It’s not going to be perfect, and that’s okay.”

The event was met with an overwhelmingly positive response from the community, filling the bookstore to near capacity.

“I need to buy more chairs,” laughed shop owner Shannon McKechnie.

When asked if Commonplace Books plans to host another poetry night, McKechnie was quick to say yes. “We’re definitely going to host another one, especially with this kind of traction.”

If you’re interested in the next poetry night or other upcoming bookish events, you can visit Commonplace Book’s website https://www.commonplaceingersoll.ca/.