Feminist Folklore & Poetry: Water Spirits, Mermaids, and Seaspells

Session 1: Water Spirits, Mermaids, and Seaspells

Room 7 Nottingham Central Library

Luring all ocean souls, swamp witches, and beachlovers to the library!

In this session, we turn to water spirits, mermaids, and sea folklore as starting points for writing poetry.

Together, we will read and discuss siren songs, water chants, and stories from the Deep!

Then we will write our own spells through guided prompts and writing exercises. We’ll explore themes of transformation, voice, and the fluid boundaries between body, myth, and landscape.

Open to all levels, the session offers a supportive space to write, experiment, and share.

You can connect with the COVEN on Instagram: @thecoven.notts

Connect with Kate: @kissed.by_fire [email protected]

COVEN is a series of poetry writing sessions for women and genderqueer people led by poet and filmmaker Kate MacAlister. The writing sessions developed from the Creators in Residence programme at Nottingham Central Library in collaboration with Nottingham UNESCO City of Literature.

Following a fully booked workshop series exploring feminist folklore, poetry, and archival material, COVEN continues as an ongoing space for writing, reflection, and creative exchange.

Each session focuses on writing poetry, using feminist fairy tales, mythology, and folktales as starting points. We will read and discuss selected texts, have some fun with lots of guided writing exercises,s and prompts.

COVEN is open to all levels. No previous writing experience is necessary, and you are free to engage in ways that feel comfortable to you! The sessions aim to create a supportive, inclusive environment where people can experiment, develop their writing, share stories, and connect with others.