Verses for Versi

The Maltese Poets Association (Għaqda Poeti Maltin) has issued its third edition of its quarterly Versi.

Alfred Massa, president of the association, pays a warm tribute to Ġużè Aquilina on the 100th anniversary of his birth, outlining and highlighting some of the most important episodes and phases of his long life and career.

The editorial looks with a somewhat jaundiced eye at the future of local poetry, suggesting more action and involvement from the authorities to ascertain that this most noble art thrives on.

There is a tribute to poet Vincenzo Maria Pellegrini, 100 years after his birth in 1911. Pellegrini was also a most respected and active member of the association, of which he was also a member.

The Contemporary Maltese Poets Corner is dedicated to Fr Geoffrey Attard, and included are three of his finest and most moving poems.

Michela Mifsud contributes an essay about the primary elements that distinguished Maltese society, as reflected in 20th century local poetry.

Christian Massa expounds on the nostalgic element in poetry, followed by a short report on the recent visit of two Italian poets (Alberto Figliolia and Clirim Muca) to Malta.

A literary critique by Charles Magro analyses Aquilina’s lovely poem Fittixt, which is followed by Alfred Massa who once again relays news from the world of poetry.

Massa reviews two new publications: Weraq ir-Rand, a collection of poems by Ġanninu Cremona and Imħabba, Dlam, Poeżija by Karmenu Mallia, a study on three poems written by St John of the Cross.

Massa also pays tribute to national poet Dun Karm on the 50th year of his death in 1961.

Versi is replete with a number of beautiful poems in various languages.

Copies, at 58c, may be ob-tained from 9, ‘Springdale’, Triq it-Taħħân, Mosta, MST 4215.