Dead Poetry Society

September 12th and 13th

Have you ever asked yourself, “Where does bad poetry go to die?” Independence Historical Society is hosting a Dead Poetry Society wake and burial Friday, September 12th and Saturday September 13th from 6 to 8 PM at the Bramley House.

If you have written a bad poem you’ve struggled to discard—whether hidden away, left in a notebook or locked in a digital file—bring it to share. Poets aged 16 to 116 are invited to lay their work to rest in our commemorative casket.

Please prepare a written eulogy, 50-500 words, to express your poem’s shortcomings—be it unclear lines, forced rhymes, or lack of engagement. This is a chance to honor your creative effort and finally say goodbye to your imperfect work. Following the eulogies, we’ll gather at the burial plot for the interment.

Black attire is encouraged, and light refreshments will be served as you reflect and commiserate with fellow writers. Turn those poetic blunders into memories and celebrate the beauty of literary missteps together!