Figures of speech. The many speeches I’ve given at poetry events are mostly lost, or were given extemporaneously based on notes. The following, however, are selected speeches for which I have a record. I wish I still had a copy of the speech I gave for my college graduation, in which I quoted E. E. Cummings as well as Jimi Hendrix: “Let’s touch the sky” and “Excuse me while I kiss the sky.” I wish I had also quoted Rumi, who said, “Only from the heart can you touch the sky.” For related articles, especially about Haiku North America, please also see the Reports page. For a variety of speech and event photos, see Appearances (scroll down).
If you have any comments or questions, please contact Michael Dylan Welch.
Rainier Haiku Ginsha Celebrates Its 90th Anniversary
(2024 speech for their 90th anniversary celebration)
(2013 keynote address for the Haiku International Association)
(2004 Haiku Pacific Rim speech in Ogaki, Japan; first published here)
Poets in the Park 2004: Opening Remarks (first published here)
Poets in the Park 2005: Opening Remarks (first published here)
Welcome to Haiku North America 2001 (first published here)
Welcome to Haiku North America 2003 (first published here)
Welcome to Haiku North America 2009 (first published here)
Smooth Sailing—2013 HNA Welcome Speech (first published here)
Welcoming Speech at the Third International Tanka Convention