Yesterday was National Poetry Day, and for once, I was ready.

Yesterday was 'National Poetry Day', and for once, I was ready.

This might actually have been a first.

Unfortunately, much like 'Go Skateboarding Day', where I think you could count on one hand, with a few missing fingers, how many times I've actually been out skateboarding, National and World Poetry Days usually pass me by.

Unless, of course, social media reminds me.

This time, it was thanks to a post from Niall O'Sullivan on Instagram, announcing, “After a six-year hiatus, Poetry Unplugged is returning to Covent Garden's Poetry Café one more time for NATIONAL POETRY DAY UNPLUGGED!!!”

When I was a much younger poet, dipping my toe into the London poetry scene, Poetry Unplugged at The Poetry Society HQ in Covent Garden was a regular haunt of mine. I have so many great memories of that tiny basement and those creaky stairs (IYKYK).

I've seen some of my favourite poets, from all over the world, perform in that tiny basement. And I've been introduced to poets who I'd later add to that list and many who became friends. It was a place to find flyers for other poetry events, try new poems and pick up spots for other nights.

But, more than anything, I remember being inspired by the other performers.

Whenever I needed a bit of inspiration, was battling writer's block, or fighting off the imposter syndrome, Poetry Unplugged was somewhere I knew I'd find an amazing mix of poets, and an appreciative audience of peers.

Anyway, enough of my gushing.

Last night felt like a much need trip down memory lane; great poets, old friends, new friends, and the ever trust Niall O'Sillivan on hosting duties.

But don't worry if you missed out, you won't have to wait another six years for the next one.

Poetry Unplugged is back on the 17th November! See you there.