Manifesto - Xenia Poetics

Manifesto for the Movement of Xenia Poetics

We are tired of hearing the phrases “accessible” and “inaccessible” casually tossed about as if we all agree about these words mean when in fact they are totally subjective terms. One poet’s accessible poetry could be boring to certain readers or completely inaccessible to others. We also support the goals of encouraging and welcoming wider readership to the poetic world without giving up the depth available in poetry.  To this end we propose the following for poetry that anyone belonging to this movement will employ:

1) The movement name Xenia  comes from the ancient greek word for the concept of hospitality, the generosity and courtesy shown to those who are far from home.

2) As such we will be accessible within this definition: an emotional through-line will be available to readers and the poem transparently demonstrates this availability with its content, word choice, syntax and form making multiple intelligences welcome.

3) Content comes first, the form must be chosen for specific definable reasons

4) We will utilize  sensation, feeling, emotion that the body goes through to infuse in the poem

5) Having said that we believe in the creative autonomy of the poet and when writing the audience is not with the poet, but is welcomed afterwards.

Our aim broadens the outreach of poetry without giving up creative depth and meaning.