Stirling’s Makar Laura Fyfe is set to gracefully step down from her role with a special celebration. After four years of passionately representing the city through poetry and writing workshops, Laura has immersed herself in celebrating Stirling’s culture, heritage, and community. She has engaged with locals, collaborated with creatives, and empowered individuals to express themselves through writing.
During her term as Makar, Laura has sparked creativity, encouraged confidence in aspiring writers, and provided inclusive platforms for sharing stories. To mark the end of her tenure, Laura will host a unique event on Friday, November 15, where former Makar Anita Govan will join her in reading poetry and exploring the literary landscape of Stirling, from its past to its future.
The Central Library in Stirling will be the venue for this special celebration, inviting members of the community to honour Laura’s contributions as Stirling’s Makar. Laura will share excerpts from her latest poetry collection, and the event will feature a captivating performance from Anita Govan, adding to the literary richness of the evening.
Laura Fyfe, known not only as a Makar but also as a teacher and writer, describes her passion for poetry as a compulsion, weaving stories for enjoyment and challenging herself with novels. Her work has been recognised in esteemed literary publications and competitions, reflecting her dedication to the craft of writing. Laura’s impact extends beyond Stirling, as she facilitates writing workshops across Scotland and supports writers globally.
Joining Laura at the event is Anita Govan, an accomplished spoken word poet with a diverse career spanning nearly three decades. Anita’s poetry has resonated with audiences worldwide, earning her recognition on various platforms and stages, from Edinburgh to New York. Her dynamic performances and advocacy for the literary arts have made her a prominent figure in the creative community.
The celebration on November 15 promises an evening of poetry, reflection, and appreciation for the contributions of both Laura Fyfe and Anita Govan to Stirling’s cultural tapestry. The event is open to the public, offering an opportunity to witness the culmination of Laura’s Makar term and the continuation of Stirling’s rich literary tradition.
In summary, Laura Fyfe’s upcoming departure from the role of Stirling’s Makar is being commemorated with a special event featuring poetry readings and discussions about the literary landscape of Stirling. Her impactful tenure, along with the presence of former Makar Anita Govan, highlights the significance of poetry and storytelling in shaping communities and preserving cultural heritage. The celebration serves as a tribute to the creative spirit of Stirling and the profound influence of both Laura and Anita in nurturing artistic expression.