John Lent, a prominent poet and writing instructor from Vernon, describes the experience of holding his new collection, Molecular Cathedral: The Poetry of John Lent, as eerie, magical, and outrageous. The collection is published by Wilfred Laurier University Press and features selections made by Kelowna poet Jake Kennedy from Lent’s seven books published between 1978 and 2019.
Lent finds the process magical due to the “astonishing” selections made by Kennedy. “It was fascinating to see what he chose,” Lent said. His published works also include a volume of short stories and two novels. Lent emphasized his complete trust in Kennedy throughout the selection process.
The idea for the collection originated from Kennedy. Two years ago, they met for coffee on a grey, late fall morning near the airport. During their meeting, Kennedy revealed he had pitched the idea to the enthusiastic editorial team behind the Laurier Poetry Series. “I remember sitting there with my mouth open, not really knowing what to say except, ‘Thank you…’ It was such a beautiful surprise, one of the best gifts I have ever received in my life,” Lent recalled. He had previously taught from the poetry series in his writing classes at Okanagan College.
Lent also expressed feelings of eeriness when reflecting on the poems in the collection. He noted the “mysterious unity” in vision and form that he observed in his work written over nearly 50 years. Lent commented on how he learned to use language to express his thoughts and the evolution of his poetic style. His poetry is known for being experimental and unexpected, yet it remains accessible, conversational, and lyrical, reflecting his background as a singer-songwriter.
Lent found it outrageous to see how much time had passed in his life while flipping through the pages of his collection. He felt humbled to see his life’s work compiled in one book.
The cover of Molecular Cathedral features a vibrant and sensual abstract painting titled Say Yes, created by Lent’s wife, Jude Clarke. Several of her paintings will be displayed at the Valley Voices reading series celebrating the book’s launch.
“Being included in John’s book launch is very moving and joyous as this will be our first joint project,” said Clarke. She is known for her abstract images of water, land, and sky, often reflecting inner consciousness with a focus on the dual meaning of gravity. Clarke mentioned that her paintings of the Okanagan differ greatly from her work during the years they lived in France and Scotland. “We’re thrilled,” she added.
The Valley Voices John Lent readings will take place in Kelowna on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Sprout Bakery and Café. There will also be an event in Vernon on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Vernon Library.
Additionally, Valley Voices will host a fiction festival in Kelowna on Nov. 1-2. For more information, visit valleyvoicesokanagan.com.
Valley Voices Okanagan is a reading series that celebrates local writers of all ages and stages. It began in 2022 and features readings in Vernon, Kelowna, and Summerland, all filled with creative energy, joy, and community.
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