Even if you’re new to the Coast you’ve probably seen or heard about poet Terry Barker. Lots of people know him very well – from his columns that he wrote for many years for Coast Reporter that described local landmarks and history or from his presence at the Sechelt Farmers’ Market where he sold his books.
On Saturday, Jan. 28 some of Barker’s fans, David Roche and Jane Covernton, are organizing an appreciation event at the Sunshine Coast Arts Centre at 4 p.m. with Barker in attendance. Speakers will read from his poetry and the audience will hear music by Anna Lumiere of Gershwin, one of Barker’s favourite composers. Roche says that it’s informal and there will be a long break so people can hug the guest of honour.
“I think this is what the Sunshine Coast is all about,” Roche said. “This community is creative – they’re writers and poets.” It’s not a roast – just a sauté, quips MC Roche, adding that there might be some sweet teasing. The object is to show appreciation for all the work Barker has done over the years (he’s now 89) and to enjoy each other’s company.
“He symbolizes the Sunshine Coast for me,” said Roche. “That’s what drives me.”
Barker, who now lives at Shorncliffe Care Home with his wife Connie, is modestly mystified by the honour that his friends want to bestow on him.
“Yes, I’m still writing poetry,” he told Coast Reporter. Barker has also written several books of local history with accompanying sketches, several books of poetry – one of them, A Fine Romance, with art by his daughter Shannon Barker – and a non-fiction book of great compassion and insight, Last Chance This Life, letters to his drug addicted son.
In a more recent collection Barker wrote: “When I was nine Erato came to me/ and said these words: I am your muse/ Now I will tell you who you will be.
“You will be a student and a teacher/ you will travel the world/ you will find love/ and you will write.
“And one day when you are old,/and your face is lined/ and your hair is grey/ and your love is gone away/ and you sit alone in your lonely chair – you will write this poem.”
The appreciation event is at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28 at the Arts Centre. It’s free, refreshments from Treats by Trish can be purchased, and all are invited.
