KREST POET A GUEST SPEAKER AT SPEARMAN PRIMARY

 

Written by Mervin M. Francis (author of poetry anthologies Book of Dreams and Dreams of Life)

An educator Miss Connie Francis came across my Poetry on Facebook and reached out to me to give a talk to their Grade 6 and 7 students at Spearman Primary School on the subject of poetry writing. I was overwhelmed by her request and without hesitation I accepted her invite to visit the school. Together we colaborated on the agenda for my visit which was to address both grades individually so as not to upset their class time tables. On the 4th of August 2023 I made my way to Spearman Primary School where I was warmly received and I was introduced to some of the Educators. I was then led to the assembly point where I was introduced to the grade 6 learners first.The topic of discussion was in relation to poetry. Miss Connie introduced me to the learners as a South African Author who specialised in poetry. She then handed the mic over to me to share my journey as a published author, and what inspired me to write poetry. I was somewhat nervous as this was my first interaction outside of doing interviews. After introducing myself I picked up my 1st book and opened up the pages to read and I lifted my head to see the kids pointing to the book in my hand. They all shouted out that the book was upside-down. The copy that I had was actually an error from the printers but I carried it along as an ice breaker. I chose 2 poems from my first book "Book Of Dreams". The titles were "Friendship",  A topic relatable to youngsters as it shows how much one values having true friends that helps us grow. I asked the children if they had friends and if the poem related to their friendship in any way and I was amazed at the positive responses that I received. The 2nd poem I chose was "Spring in the Air",  with Spring closing in on us I wanted to relate to the changing of the season and growth of nature that surrounds us and the importance it plays in our lives. I then read from my 2nd book called "Dreams Of Life" "Echoes of Silence" a poem about feeling alone and lost in thought only to be reminded by our surroundings that we are never alone and the last poem I chose was "I thanked my God " with everything going on around us where we are losing lives due to virus and disasters and this poem reminds us that we should be thankful to get to enjoy another day and to be positive about the future. We had a short break and was then met by Grade 7 learners. Both discussions followed the same path and was well received by both grades and we ended with some dancing to some of South African songs Vuli Ndlela, and Jerusalema. I  was then invited to the Staff room where I met with the Principal. She thanked me and requested for me to revisit the school to address the entire school at Assembly. My visit is set for the 15th of August 2023.
My awesome experience at Spearman Primary School. Thanks to all for an amazing memory.