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Award-winning poet speaks at VIU

Award-winning poet speaks set to give free public lecture at Vancouver Island University Thursday.

An award-winning poet is sharing his work at Vancouver Island University this week.

Dennis Lee, the 2012 Gustafson Distinguished Poet chairman, will speak at a free public lecture in Nanaimo at VIU Thursday (Oct. 18). He’ll also speak at a student only event on Wednesday (Oct. 17)

During his discussion, Re-Greening the Undermusic, Lee will also  explore the evolution of his work over the past five decades.

“In my early 20s I was writing painfully artificial poetry, trying to belong to the older tradition of verse,” said Lee in an e-mail. “Over the decades, I’ve gradually learned to write more directly, with greater technical freedom.”

The poet will also discuss his latest book, Testament.

Lee received the 1971 Governor General’s Award, the Order of Canada and was named Toronto’s Poet Laureate.

Lee will speak at VIU Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium of Bldg. 355.

After the lecture a reception and book signing will be held in the Royal Arbutus Room, Bldg. 300. During the reception people can purchase copies of his book.

reporter3@nanaimobulletin.com