"Writing Poetry Inspired By Nature: Where to Begin and How to Continue"

"Writing Poetry Inspired By Nature: Where to Begin and How to Continue"
With Ayesha Chouglay

Summary
Want to write poetry but feel unsure where to start? Or are you a writer looking for some inspiration? Or simply looking to spend an evening in London, feeling as though you are somewhere much wilder?

My talk will explore how to get started with writing poetry inspired by the green spaces around us, from rural places to urban green spaces such as London’s parks and squares. I will draw on years of experience as a poet, including my work as a writer for Nature Calling, a national arts programme funded by Arts Council England, DEFRA, and National Landscapes in England. I will also read you a few poems of my own. As a partially deaf person, I lean into senses such as scent and touch, and encourage a multisensory approach.

My lecture will include a few optional writing and drawing exercises, which you can do with a simple pen and paper, your phone, or even inside your head. If you’d like to bring your own writing supplies, please do. There will be opportunities to share with the group but no pressure to. Drawing exercises help to form a creative mindset for writing.

Open to all. No experience needed.

Bio
Ayesha is a freelance writer, artist and facilitator, amongst other roles, and has co-judged the Deaf and Disabled Writer Commissions for the London Writers Centre for two years running. She recently spoke at the Neurodiversity and Disability Arts Landscape programme at Goldsmiths. Her work is often inspired by personal experience with deafness and disability.

As one of the commissioned writers for Nature Calling, she wrote a series of poems in response to the Lincolnshire Wolds. Nature Calling is a national arts programme by the National Landscapes Association, designed to inspire communities to connect with selected national landscapes. Ayesha also facilitated a series of multi-sensory drawing and poetry workshops, exploring barriers to accessing green spaces. One workshop took place along a highly accessible walking trail at Hubbard’s Hills, an area of natural beauty. The others took place online, enabling people to explore rural spaces from home.

Venue:
Pizza East, Shoreditch
56 Shoreditch High Street
E1 6JJ


Event Running Time:
(we recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only)
Feel free to eat in the restaurant from anytime after 4pm
Doors from 7pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm

Food:
If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts.

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is always the option to purchase food at our events.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet friendly?

Yes, we allow pets to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.