In February, a fifth-year student from Stratford District secondary school was named the city’s first-ever youth poet laureate. The position, which lasts for one year, allows the young poet, Mayer, to inspire others and promote the literary arts among the youth of Stratford.
“I want to share my love of poetry and writing with the youth of Stratford,” Mayer said. “I hope to encourage other young writers to express themselves and develop a passion for the literary arts.”
Mayer’s deep connection with poetry began during their time being home-schooled by their mother until Grade 8. One year, the curriculum was entirely focused on poetry. Mayer recalls a memorable lesson where they read a poem and created a watercolor painting inspired by it. This experience helped Mayer realize the power of imagery in poetry, which sparked their love for the art form.
Nature is a major influence on Mayer’s current writing, particularly a quiet patch of woods near their home. “It’s peaceful and beautiful, and much of my inspiration comes from there,” they explained. Mayer also draws inspiration from their personal experiences and the music they listen to, including bands like Circa Survive and L.S. Dunes.
Mayer learned about the poet laureate program through their English teacher and was “really surprised” to be selected for the role. “I was excited to tell my teacher, and she was so proud,” Mayer said. “It was a surprise, but a very welcome one, and I’m honored to have this opportunity.”
Selected from a shortlist of three candidates, Mayer will receive a $1,000 honorarium funded by Destination Stratford. As part of the role, Mayer will work with the local library to plan a youth literary event and perform two original poems at upcoming community events.
Though Mayer has never performed poetry publicly, they have experience performing music, which they see as similar. “I’ve performed music before, so this feels familiar,” Mayer shared.
In addition to these responsibilities, Mayer will also have the chance to work with the city’s poet laureate, David Stones, who is serving a three-year term. Mayer looks forward to learning how to expand their writing topics and develop their skills further. “I’m excited to learn how to use different forms of poetry and how to get my work published,” Mayer said.
David Stones, who was also interviewed in March, expressed his excitement about working with Mayer. “Mayer seems like a great person and a very fine poet,” Stones said.
This fall, Mayer will begin a bachelor of music degree with a specialization in voice at Wilfrid Laurier University. “I like to think I’m well-rounded,” Mayer said, looking forward to growing their talents beyond poetry.
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