Word Play

Beltmag.com recently published a piece about Russel Atkins, the avant garde poet who’s nearing 90 and living in obscurity on Cleveland’s east side. It’s an incredible profile and ought to get you jazzed about the underground poetry scene here in Cleveland. If you’re looking to dip your toe(s) in that particular pond, another cleveland poet will be reading this evening at Visible Voice Books in Tremont. Vladimir Swirynsky, considered a major voice in the Cleveland poetry scene, will be reading selections from his collection "Poetry: The Tedious Mining of Words" from 7 to 10 p.m. A title like that, understandably, doesn’t make it sound all that awesome, but it’s not like you need to stay for the whole thing. Have a glass of wine and let the words wash over you (or something), then browse the bookstore and enjoy a lovely evening in Tremont. At any rate, it’s free. (Allard)