Welcome to the May edition of the Versopolis newsletter – your monthly gateway to everything poetic across Europe.This month, we’re delighted to be part of three festivals: Barcelona Poesia in Spain, the Cork International Poetry Festival in Ireland, and Poesiefestival in Berlin, Germany.

Dear Versopolis friends,
Welcome to the May edition of the Versopolis newsletter – your monthly gateway to everything poetic across Europe.This month, we’re delighted to be part of three festivals: Barcelona Poesia in Spain, the Cork International Poetry Festival in Ireland, and Poesiefestival in Berlin, Germany. These gatherings celebrate the diversity of voices and the boundless reach of verse – reminding us that poetry thrives wherever people come together to listen, feel, and reflect.Let’s carry the energy of May into each stanza, each encounter – we’re so glad to be walking this poetic path with you.
With warm wishes,
Your Versopolis Team
 
POETRY AS A SOCIAL TOOL IN ADOLESCENCEMy life with poetry
In the latest episode of My Life with Poetry, poet Muanis Sinanović discusses the role of poetry as a social tool during adolescence. He reflects on his greatest achievement—discovering his personal poetic style and learning to navigate his imaginative world. Sinanović also shares thoughtful advice for young poets on finding their voice and engaging meaningfully with their inner and outer worlds.>> Watch

POETRY IN LATE STAGE CAPITALISMVersopolis podcast #27
Late-stage capitalism is typically defined as the final form of a highly commercialized society. Fast fashion, globalization with borders porous to capital but closed to people, the exploitation of natural resources, and rampant ecological damage are among the most pressing issues of our time. How do poets respond to these times of crisis and social inequality? How are the predicaments of today’s societies reflected in poetry?>> Listen here

AUTHORS OF THE WEEKGermany – Berlin
Exploring the planetary: on poetic contributions to developing a consciousness of terrestrial coexistence I and II by Asmus Trautsch

The scientific diagnosis of the Anthropocene as a new geological epoch in which the impact of human civilisation transforms the Earth system and its eco systems is linked to the practical challenge of ensuring the habitability of planet Earth for humans and millions of other species. The challenge calls for action, i.e. concrete measures to kerb and revise the transgression of planetary boundaries by the entire global community, particularly the rich countries whose economies heavily rely on fossil fuels.>> Keep reading

MAY FESTIVALSSpain, Ireland & Germany 
Looking forward to the next events in the 2025 poetry festival season?First, join us for Barcelona Poesia in Spain, from May 6–13, where the city comes alive with readings, performances, and encounters that celebrate poetry in all its forms. This long-standing festival brings together voices from around the world in a vibrant celebration of verse.Next, head to Ireland for the Cork International Poetry Festival, running from May 13–17, where acclaimed poets and emerging voices share the stage in a dynamic programme of readings, workshops, and discussions.And don’t miss Poesiefestival in Berlin, Germany, from 15 May 2025 – 15 June 2025 – a bold and diverse festival that explores poetry across languages, media, and borders, with performances that will surprise and inspire.Don’t miss these fantastic events that promise to be an unforgettable experience!>> Find out more

A NEW NAME N THE ISLAND OF MORSPoesitid 2025
In April 2025, the Sommertid Festival officially became Poesitid, continuing its transformation of the Danish island of Mors into a vibrant space for poetry, art, and conversation. Set against the dramatic spring landscape of northern Denmark, the festival featured open-air readings, nature-based performances, and intimate evening gatherings that fostered dialogue and creative exchange between local and international voices.

VIR: Vesopolis