Our resident bard, English teacher Ron Barton, has been shortlisted as a finalist in a national poetry competition.
His poem 1×4 Brick, inspired by his love of LEGO, is one of 10 finalists in the teacher category of the Red Room Poetry Object 2020 contest.
Despite being a published poet, Mr Barton said he was “flabbergasted” to be shortlisted.
“My kids and I watched LEGO Masters together and it rekindled their love of LEGO.
“They would spread their bricks all over the floor, sorting through them to try and find the right piece for whatever they were building.
“I’d watch them or build alongside them and it reminded me of when I would play with LEGO with my stepdad. This poem is really a reflection of those treasured memories.”
Red Room Poetry Object is Australasia’s largest free poetry-writing competition for young people and their teachers.
The winner will receive a $500 cash prize, book pack, mentoring session with judge Eleanor Jackson and magazine subscriptions.
“I’ve come across this competition before but never entered prior to this year,” Mr Barton said.
“Poetry allows you to express thoughts and feelings, and to explore perspectives other than your own. Hopefully, I can get students to participate when the competition reopens next year.
“It’s creativity you can create and consume in a moment. As such, it’s the perfect medium for someone who wants to write but doesn’t have the time, or patience, for larger projects.”
Red Room Poetry Object 2020 winners will be announced on August 20.
Good luck Mr Barton!
Photo by Bill Thomsen