CV2 Celebrates 50 Years of Poetry with Special Anniversary Event

Contemporary Verse 2 (CV2), the oldest poetry journal in Canada, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a festive event featuring local poets. The anniversary party will take place on December 19, 2023, at the Video Pool Media Arts Centre in Winnipeg, where attendees will enjoy an evening of poetry readings and live music.

In honor of this significant milestone, CV2 has published two special extended issues that republish a selection of archival poems spanning from 1975 to 2020. This initiative not only highlights the journal’s rich history but also showcases the evolution of Canadian poetry over the decades. The event promises to be a vibrant celebration of both past and present contributions to the literary landscape.

The evening will kick off at 6:30 PM with a performance by Winnipeg songwriter Theresa Thor, setting the tone for an engaging night. Following the musical introduction, the audience can look forward to readings from a lineup of notable poets whose work has been featured in CV2 during the past year. This includes accomplished writers such as J.R. Léveillé, Duncan Mercredi, Catherine Hunter, Sarah Klassen, and Jaime Black-Morsette.

The event is open to the public and free of charge, although donations are welcome to support CV2’s ongoing mission to promote poetry and literature. As the evening unfolds, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with the poets and fellow poetry enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community among those who appreciate the art form.

This anniversary celebration not only marks a significant chapter in CV2’s history but also reaffirms the importance of poetry in Canadian culture. With a commitment to showcasing diverse voices and perspectives, CV2 continues to play a vital role in the literary community.

As the event approaches, excitement is building among both the poets and the audience. CV2 invites everyone to join in this celebration of creativity and expression, as they reflect on the past while looking forward to the future of poetry in Canada.