A Tribute to Marti

Ah Marti, you're a poet's delight,
A woman of charm and distinction,
Tonight we colluded to turn the spotlight
On the heroine who fed our addiction.

As bards, we all carry baggage around -
Despite rumours, we are merely mortal -
We all have misgivings and doubts abound,
But they vanish on entering your portal.

You created a space, equating your grace,
A place where thinkers assembled,
If we drank too much, or were a disgrace,
Your tolerance is always remembered.

The Bookcafe was a special treat,
From the moment you opened the door,
A refuge, and a welcome retreat,
From those arduous bucolic chores.

The venue you made was a haven craved,
By those who love wrestling ideas.
Like a saintly maid, you undoubtedly saved
Many from the worst of their fears.

For here, we found kindred spirits,
We debated and laughed and sang
Amid worded walls, beyond the limits
Of censors and other harsh critics.

Here, everyone was an equal,
Every view respected and heard,
We wish you well in your sequel,
Your legacy is our written word.


Craig Nelson 2009

For two years from March 2007, Marti Guy's Bookcafe in Bellingen was a venue for many interesting groups, not least of which were the Bards of Bello.