Copyright Gulgong Folk Festival 2009 / 2010 Australia

thalia

thalia
thalia started writing lexikon and visual poetry in 1972 and became known as an anarchist poet in Melbourne, writing about migrant culture and working class life.

She was a co-editor of 925 - a mag of poetry for the workers by the workers, about the workers' work, and is a founding member of the Poets' Union of Australia.  

thalia's work has been published extensively in Australia and overseas. 


 

GULGONG
  

locals and nearby folk wearing Sunday’s best
are making their way to the town centre.
the narrow street is full of fold-out chairs
and standing onlookers.

outside the opera house
the caller calls
the band starts
and we:

Balance and Swing.
Forward and back. Crossover.
Forward and back. Cross. Swing!

First Couple Down. Forward and Back.
Crossover. Forward and Back. Cross!
Everybody swing! Top couple down!
You’re on Your Own!

Swing!

 Top Couple! Forward and back!
Everybody swing! Top couple down!
Forward and Back. Cross. Swing!
Top Down! Last Time!

we balance and swing
and turn around and point
and turn around and point
and turn around and point

into another year
with stars as bright as the sun.

thalia 2009
Updated Copyright Gulgong Folk Festival 2009 / 2010 Australia