I find it amazing that a small germ of an idea from three years ago has slowly evolved into a large, vibrant and creative community of poets. Invisible Poets was founded in a project by two English poets; me and my friend Charlene Phare. I first met Charlene four years ago when I visited her for the day and we jointly presented several live poetry shows and recorded two YouTube interviews. Since then we have collaborated on a number of poetry related projects, and in February 2023 we decided to start a new poetry group on Facebook. Charlene set up the mechanics of the group and I named it, and designed the logo (the crouching hoodied poet).
Since then, Invisible Poets has grown steadily to the point that it's now the size of a small city at just over 85,000 members. Not all are active, but those that are regularly share their poetry in the group and participate in a number of projects and activities. These include the live poetry shows on most days, the prompts and challenges, and various other activities. There is also the Invisible Poets roadshow, a live lights and sound show that is currently touring the United Kingdom to raise money for Save the Children.
In 2024, to celebrate its first birthday, Invisible Poets branched out (in collaboration with Wheelsong Books) into publishing the best poetry of its members in anthologies. The following year, two further anthologies were published, and this year, to celebrate our third anniversary, we are publishing Invisible Poets Anthology 4. It is packed full of great poetry which will inspire and delight everyone who purchases a copy. If you want a copy (proceeds of which go directly to Save the Children) then head on over to our Wheelsong Books website to find all the links or email Wheelsong Books for reduced price copies.
Steve Wheeler
I’ve been a member of Invisible Poets since the beginning and have put more hours I to it than I could possibly count these past three years. I sincerely continue to believe in the Wheelsong Books mission to aid impoverished families around the world through Save The Children. Invisible Poets and Wheelsong work together as a team to make a serious difference… always humbled and honored to be a part of it!! Every anthology seems to somehow be as incredible as the last… am really looking forward to IP #4…. Thank you so much for your hard work and dedication in the name of poetry and charity Steve!
ReplyDeleteAs a survivor of extreme poverty myself, it is an honor to be able to contribute a modicum of support to the cause.
ReplyDeleteAs a child, there were numerous foundations such as Save The Children, which my family turned to for assistance with different needs. I love knowing that I might be of some help , even if it is a small part of the solution. Thank you Steve for the opportunity to have that privilege.
ReplyDeleteThe work put into the various communities that support Wheelsong poetry's chosen charity, Save The Children, creates a safe space for poets to respectfully consume other poets' work and share their own.
ReplyDeleteHaving only been a member for about 8 months I'm still constantly surprised at the depth of acceptance and encouragement I glean from this community. I have known hunger. I have eaten from trash cans, made a few visits to foodbanks...but I have never known extreme hunger or malnutrition. It's super inspiring that Wheelsong Books was founded to help address famine and protect children. Ever little bit helps.