Celebrate Grace Cathedral’s Year of Poetry and the wonderful world of W.H. Auden, on the 50th anniversary of his death.  

The Very Rev. Dr. Malcolm Clemens Young, Dean, hosts the event, and introduces presenter Peter Robinson, who will speak on the background and significance of W.H. Auden’s poetry.  

Guests will enjoy a lively presentation, readings, interpretations, and discussion of the Pulitzer Prize-winning poetry of W.H. Auden. Auden can be with us in every part of our lives showing us how rich life can be and how precious. Generally considered the greatest English poet of the twentieth century, his work has exerted a major influence on succeeding generations of poets on both sides of the Atlantic. This is an opportunity in an intimate setting to mingle in good company, be inspired, and exchange ideas.  

Along with two short videos and a recording of Auden reading his own poems, among the poetry selections to be read are “Tell Me the Truth About Love,” “September 1939,” “Spain,” “Lullaby,” “Beaux Artes,” “Funeral Blues,” and Night Mail.”

Advance registration is recommended. 

Event Details 

The event will take place in Grace Cathedral’s Dining Room, which is across the courtyard from the cathedral on the Sacramento Street side of the block. Directional signs will be posted. The accessible entrance is via the driveway at 1231 Sacramento Street. 

Watch

WH Auden recites “Doggerel by a Senior Citizen” 1969

More about Auden 

About Peter Robinson

Peter Robinson, a graduate of Cambridge University, UK, when teaching at Lewis & Clark College, Oregon, heard W.H. Auden read. “Despite the poet’s craggy appearance his voice echoed the beauty of the words and the depth of the poems.” An author, Robinson has taught at universities in UK, France, and Australia. He was on the found- ing faculty of Evergreen State College. He is currently a broadcaster at KALW 91.7 fm, Events Director at the Marin Philosophical Society, and editor of San Francisco Books & Travel. He lives in Mill Valley.  

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