Letter to Letter eX
by David Gecic

Originally published in Letter eX (April 1993)

Dear Chicago Poets and Poetry Venues:

A poetry venue must create an atmosphere. A successful poetry venue must create a successful atmosphere. The last several years have seen the coming and going of many poetry venues, from newcomers to previously well-established venues. There have been many reasons for the decline of these venues. Poets (with some exceptions) and audiences are free to go to any venue they wish. The popularity of venues depends on a complex interaction between many factors. What makes people go to one location and not another?

One of the major factors in the success of a venue is the tug-of-war that exists between the proprietor and the MC. Each of them at times shows a lack of commitmmet and a lack of understanding of the other's needs. It appears that the venues where the proprietors are most involved are the most successful. A successful poetry venue requires commitment, not always financially, but something must be dedicated to the reading, whether it be time, space, or participation. Either the proprietor or the MC may lose touch with the audience's needs. Most failed venues have had some failure in this from the MC or proprietor.

A venue should not exist solely as a poet's forum. The concept of a poetry show where the readers are set up before-hand has proved itself very successful, however, poets who show up must be given teh opportunity to read. The presence of a stage, the lighting, and teh cover charge are also contributing factors. A successful venue must take thsi into account. Primarily individuals promote venues. Sources like Letter eX and Strong Coffee are important but the best way to spread imnformation about readings is for MC's to decide to cooperate and give each other a plug. Venues must cooperate. It is in this spirit of entertainment, commitment, and cooperation that Puddin'head Books is beginning a new poetry series. It wil be held on the first and third Fridays of every month, opposite David Hernandez's show on the second and fourth Fridays of the month at Random Worlds Cafe. It will be held at 8 pm and run to approximately 9:45. It will start on time. There will be an open mike with a feature with some other surprises. There is an advantage to being there on time.

The series will open with Lisa Buscani on April 2nd and Marvin Tate on April 16th. It will be hosted by myself and Lawrence Tyler. Puddin'head Books is located at 1446 N. Milwaukee in Wicker Park.

- David Gecic