Come to Granite Springs Farm for two special events in one afternoon with poet and author Tom Dow on Monday, November 4.
The Japanese tea ceremony, Cha-no-Yu, is an experience of Japanese culture that emphasizes simplicity, or wabi-sabi, and the quiet appreciation of tasting traditional green tea in a natural environment. Join tea-leader Tom Dow in the beautiful rustic setting of Granite Springs Farm for a short presentation on the background of ‘tea’ and how one bows in Japanese culture. Then, Tom will guide you through the simple and tranquil Japanese tea ritual. Participants are invited to bring their own zabuton (floor cushion). Chair seating is available. Loose clothing recommended.
Following the tea, stay for an exploration in Japanese poetry. Haiku is a 17-syllable, 3-line poem that typically reflects an immediate experience of nature. A short presentation on the haiku form will be followed by a writing session for your own haiku in contemplation of the natural setting on the farm. We will then gather to enjoy reading of the haiku composed, followed by a discussion of the connection of nature and writing poetry. Bring a notebook and pen.
Japanese Tea Ceremony
Time: 1:00pm – 2:30pm
Cost: $25, includes tea bowl and small dish
Haiku Presentation & Workshop
Time: 3:00pm – 4:40pm
Cost: $20
Since the meditative quality of the tea ceremony naturally leads to the writing of haiku, this is presented as a combined event for a reduced price of $40.00.
Pre-registration is required. Pay at the door.
To register, please email: meredith@granitespringsfarm.com
Granite Springs Farm is located at 266 Granite Springs, Pittsboro, NC 27312
Bio:
Tom Dow is a native of Washington, D.C. and taught French and English in Tokyo for 16 years. He received an MFA in writing from Vermont College in 2005. A collection of his poetry, “Different Gates”, was published in 1995 by Saru Press/Printed Matter Press, Tokyo. His work has appeared in Tar River Poetry, Southern Poetry Review, Pearl, tundra, Evergreen Chronicles, and many publications in Japan and France. Dow won the North Carolina Poetry Society McDill award in 2006. He is a translator of the poetry of Zen monk, Sengai, and of various contemporary French poets. Dow is currently working on a novel set in modern Japan. He also teaches poetry and creative travel writing at Central Carolina Community College.
Chatham County, NC Market Farm & CSA 