Bruce Roseland
Topics: Discussion Leader, Environment, Poetry, South Dakota, South Dakota Poet Laureate, Writing
Community: Seneca
Program Types: One Book South Dakota, Speakers Bureau, Virtual Program(s)
http://heartoftheprairie.net/
bbroseland@venturecomm.net | (605) 436-6770
Storytelling Through Poetry
As Poet Laureate of South Dakota, Roseland believes writing poetry is a way of recording and sharing our personal and collective stories. He encourages the reading and writing of free verse poetry and gives participants the opportunity to be heard during open mics. You are invited to join in building the Golden Age of We (from Roseland’s “Celebrate: We Want to Know”) – a path to interact and connect through poetry.
Heart of the Prairie
Roseland shares stories of ranching life in South Dakota, from his great-grandparents’ homestead to his present-day working ranch. His stories are free verse poetry from his book Heart of the Prairie (2021), awarded the 2022 Will Rogers Medallion Gold Metal. Roseland reads poems and discusses changes in rural living. He describes the need for preserving our grasslands, as well as how conservation informs his writing. Participants are encouraged to bring poems of their own to read/discuss.
Writing Free Verse Poetry – Basics
Roseland teaches basic skills of writing free verse, grounded poetry. This program serves ages 6-100+, from those who’ve never written a poem to those looking for more confidence in their work. As our state’s Poet Laureate, Roseland’s mission is to promote the excellence of South Dakota poets. He reads examples from his works, explains skills and gives exercises. Participants write and discuss their own poems.