The release of Liz Zetlin’s 6th collection of poetry, Prompted by Happiness has been rescheduled from May 5th to the fall because the publisher, Black Moss Press, was having difficulty finding a printer. So instead of a book launch, Liz, Owen Sound’s first poet laureate, decided to give away some of her other poetry books, which have been languishing in boxes in the basement.

She invites people up to her porch at 763 2nd Ave. West, just around the corner from the Owen Sound Library, to take a poetry book, or two, or three. She’s asked that if people feel like saying hi, to ring the bell, so she can “see your lovely face.”

It’s been three days since she posted this invitation on Facebook, and although many have said “what a great idea,” not one person has passed by to take a book. “I can’t even give away poetry for free!” She laments. “I know there is tons of free stuff these days, but there’s nothing like settling down with a real book and savouring a poem or two. I actually keep favorite poetry books in the bathroom, and that way, well, you know, read a couple of poems a day.”

Liz did an interview with Black Moss Press this week, which we have republished here with her permission.