Airdrie poet Ross Mitchell is set to host a special event in honor of World Poetry Day. The free event, titled “Hope,” will take place on Friday, March 21, at Airdrie Library.
Mitchell, who recently published the poetry anthology “Darkness, Light and a Sprinkle of Everything in Between,” has organized the event as an interactive experience. His book features 88 poems that explore different aspects of life, focusing on hope even in difficult times.
A Personal Journey Turned into Poetry
The inspiration behind Mitchell’s book comes from his personal experiences with cancer, particularly his wife Caroline’s battle with the disease. Proceeds from the book are being donated to cancer charities.
“Writing this book was a form of therapy for me,” Mitchell said. “It helped quiet the noise in my head and brought me peace by putting words onto paper.”
He credits his wife’s resilience as a key motivation for his poetry.
“Caroline’s journey inspired me deeply. Watching her strength, dignity, and grace made me want to create something that captures the darkness, the light, and everything in between,” he said.
Mitchell hopes his book will bring comfort to others.
“If even one poem makes someone laugh, cry, or pause for reflection, then it has done its job,” he said.
Bringing Poetry to a Wider Audience
The immersive event at Airdrie Library will allow attendees to experience Mitchell’s poetry in a new way.
“This is an opportunity to transform the book into something entirely different,” Mitchell said. “It’s a chance to reach people who might not have read it or heard its message.”
Library staff are excited about the event, seeing it as both a creative and meaningful experience.
Katie McGrath, a librarian and event facilitator, believes World Poetry Day is the perfect occasion to highlight both local talent and the library’s immersive space.
“Ross is one of many talented working-class artists in the area with a powerful voice,” McGrath said. “There are so many like him with important stories to tell, and events like this help open the arts to a wider audience.”
A Series of Poetry Installations to Come
The immersive poetry event at Airdrie Library is expected to be the first in a series of similar installations. The library has developed immersive spaces at both its Airdrie and Motherwell locations, providing unique ways to engage with literature and storytelling.
For poetry lovers and those seeking inspiration, “Hope” promises to be a memorable experience—one that brings words to life in a way traditional readings cannot.
Related Topics: