Alice’s Book Club – SUMMER session of 2025

 The complete briefing will be available soon. Thank you!

The enduring relevance of poetry in our times

Nowadays, poetry remains a vital and transformative element of human experience, transcending the literary form and becoming a meaningful component of daily life. Despite the rapid advances in technology, the abundance of information and the evolving modes of communication, poetry continues to hold a unique and irreplaceable place in individual and collective consciousness.

I will briefly explore here the multifaceted significance of poetry in everyday life as understood today, focusing on its emotional resonance, social importance, cognitive benefits and its role in fostering empathy and community connection.

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Classical music for writing (audio)   

Poetry as an emotional and psychological anchor

At its core, poetry functions as a profound vessel for emotional expression and psychological wellbeing. The year 2025 is characterized by heightened social complexity, pervasive digital interactions, and, paradoxically, a deeper search for authentic human connection. Poetry’s ability to condense and convey complex human emotions into vivid images, metaphors, and symbolic language offers a crucial outlet for navigating the challenges of modern life.

Research and experiential accounts alike affirm that engaging with poetry (both reading and writing) provides therapeutic benefits. It facilitates self-reflection, offers solace and promotes mental health by helping individuals articulate feelings that might otherwise remain inaccessible or overwhelming. For example, poetry therapy has gained a wider acknowledgment for assisting people in coping with trauma, stress and grief, aspects which prove poetry’s enduring utility psychology. Through rhythm, sound and a compression of language, poetry activates an emotional resonance that transcends surface thought, allowing readers and writers alike to connect deeply with their inner landscapes.

● Poetry as a medium for social and cultural dialogue

Beyond the individual, poetry in 2025 serves as a powerful conduit for social commentary and cultural exchange. In a world increasingly marked by diversity and political polarization, poetry creates spaces where voices (particularly those from marginalized communities) can be amplified and heard. To that regard, contemporary poets are often activists and storytellers who challenge prevailing narratives and give a voice to issues of identity, justice and belonging.

Community poetry events, spoken word performances and on-line poetry forums have proliferated, becoming platforms for inclusion and dialogue. These gatherings foster a sense of collective belonging and mutual understanding, bridging divides created by ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or ideology.
The works of poets in the 2020s and 2025 continue the legacy of literary figures like Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou, uniting socio-political critique with personal testimony and inspiring social change.

Moreover, poetry is a universal language that transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, allowing people to connect over shared human experiences…it invites audiences globally to empathize with perspectives vastly different from their own, thereby fostering cross-cultural understanding in an interconnected world.

● Cognitive and educational benefits of poetry

In educational contexts, poetry remains an essential tool to develop critical thinking, linguistic skills and creative expression; it requires engagement with nuanced language, symbolism, and multiple layers of meaning, promoting analytical skills that extend beyond literary studies into everyday reasoning and problem-solving.

Poetry’s linguistic density encourages vocabulary building, metalinguistic awareness and interpretative flexibility. The rhythmic and sonic qualities of poetry also enhance phonemic awareness, benefiting readers and learners of all ages. Educational initiatives across schools and universities have embraced poetry not just as an academic subject, but as a living form of communication that nurtures empathy, cognitive agility, and cultural literacy.

● Poetry as a bridge between past, present and future

Poetry uniquely serves as a bridge connecting historical consciousness with present realities and future aspirations. Poems act as cultural artifacts that preserve the voices, values and emotions of past generations, while offering insights into historical events and worldviews. Simultaneously, contemporary poetry reflects and interprets today’s complex social, environmental and political landscape quite extensively.

In 2025, the continuity of poetic tradition enriches our understanding of humanity’s persistent struggles and hopes, and many beautiful poems allow us to witness the evolution of human thoughts and emotions, rooting us in shared narratives while inspiring innovation in form and content. Writing and reading poetry thus become acts of both remembrance and creativity, linking individual identity with collective legacy.

● Poetry as a catalyst for empathy and connection

One of poetry’s most profound contributions to daily life lies in its power to cultivate empathy (which is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others).
In a world where distractions abound and digital communication can feel impersonal, poetry invites readers into intimate, emotional and experiential perspectives that resonate deeply. Through vivid imagery and carefully chosen language, poetry fosters an embodied understanding of others’ joys, sorrows, fears and dreams. This empathetic engagement can translate into more compassionate interpersonal relationships and a strengthened sense of community. Poetry readings, workshops and sharing circles create inclusive environments that validate diverse experiences, promote listening and encourage dialogue…all essential aspects for social cohesion in increasingly pluralistic societies.

● Poetry’s role in personal and collective identity formation
Poetry plays a significant role in shaping both individual and communal identities. On a personal level, writing or reading poetry allow individuals to explore facets of their identity, including cultural heritage, gender and personal values; this exploration nurtures self-awareness and empowerment.
At the community level, poetry articulates collective memory and aspiration, often becoming a tool for cultural expression and resistance against erasure or oppression. Initiatives led by many laureate poets, community poets and youth poets worldwide emphasize poetry’s role in expressing localized histories and social realities, contributing to pride, resilience and continuity within communities.

● The enduring and evolving relevance of poetry
Despite the challenges posed by the dominance of artificial intelligence, prose-based narratives and the fast pace of modern life, poetry’s significance in 2025 is undiminished. Its form has evolved to embrace new media, yet its essence (a concentrated expression of human experience) remains vital. The digital age has introduced new platforms where poetry thrives, inviting participation from diverse voices and audiences who might not traditionally engage with poetry in academic or literary settings. Furthermore, poetry’s conciseness and emotional depth provide moments of pause and reflection in an era characterized by content overload and fast consumption. Poetry offers a space to slow down, to feel and to think …to reclaim language as a living, breathing art that connects us in varied meaningful ways.

Wrapping up my short dissertation here, I would like to emphasize that these days poetry stands not only as a testament to artistic heritage, but as a vital force in daily life. Its capacity to express complex emotions, to address social justice, to foster empathy and to nurture intellect ensures its continuing relevance. Poetry remains a tool for personal healing and community engagement, a bridge across cultures and eras, and a beacon guiding humanity through both turmoil and triumph. Its significance transcends time, inviting us to live more deeply, to understand more fully, and to connect more profoundly with ourselves and others.
Without any doubt, poetry in daily life continues to enrich, challenge and inspire, affirming its place as an indispensable component of the human journey.

"Poetry is emotion put into measure. The emotion must come by nature, but the measure can be acquired by art." (Thomas Hardy)

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References:

·        "The Importance of Poetry in Modern Society"; Grades Fixer (2024)
·        "Poetry’s Increasing Importance and Relevance in 2025"; UNT Today
·        "Why Poetry Matters: The Significance Of Poems In Our Lives"; When You Write
·        "The Significance of Poetry and its Role in Human Expression"; Study Moose
·        "Why Poetry Matters In Modern English Literature"
·        "The Importance and Influence of Poetry in Modern Society"; Forward Pathway
·        "Why Is Poetry Important? (25 Reasons)"
·        "The Importance Of Poetry"

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Philosophers’ Café with ALICE & Friends: Summer 2025

  The complete briefing will be available soon. Thank you!

SEPTEMBER – month of the autumnal equinox

September sits at a fascinating crossroads of the calendar year, like a graceful gateway between the heated vibrancy of summer and the crisp awakening of autumn.
This is an autumnal month endowed with a rich tapestry of natural shifts, cultural significance and (why not?) personal introspection. As the 9^th month of the Gregorian calendar, September carries both symbolic and literal weight: it heralds the start of new seasons, a new academic year ahead and new rhythms of life.

Regarding the cycles of nature, the most fundamental change defining September is its temporal position on Earth’s orbit around the sun.

We all know that around September 22^nd or 23^rd, the Autumnal Equinox occurs in the Northern Hemisphere (marking the moment when the day and night reach approximate equality in length). Symbolically speaking, this equinox signifies balance, but also a subtle shift from light to lengthening darkness. The cool relief after summer’s heat arrives with this phenomenon, and with it begins the slow descent toward winter.

Poem by John Keats (audio)

From the temperate forests of British Columbia to the deciduous woodlands of Europe and North America, September is a month of gradual transformation. Leaves (once vibrantly green due to chlorophyll-rich photosynthesis) begin to degrade the green pigments, exposing brilliant reds, oranges and yellows…resulting in famous autumnal foliage. This palette change is not just an aesthetic marvel, but a biological process in which trees conserve essential nutrients before winter dormancy.

Historically, for agricultural societies, September was a critical month of harvest. Crops like apples, grapes, pumpkins and corn reached maturity, and communities worked tirelessly to gather and store food for the cold months ahead. Aside of that, harvest festivals (celebrated in diverse cultures worldwide) often fall in September, tying the month to gratitude and communal celebration.

Also, there is a deep symbolism and a cultural richness, specific to September. Etymologically speaking, the name “September” originates from the Latin “septem," meaning seven, because in the Roman calendar it was the seventh month before January and February were added. This etymological relic is a reminder of the fluid nature of timekeeping and human attempts to make sense of cycles before the modern calendar stabilized.

September holds multiple symbolic meanings, and it is often considered a month of beginnings, particularly in education. Many universities, colleges, and schools in the Northern Hemisphere start their academic year, imbuing September with associations of new opportunities, intellectual growth, and personal development.

Moreover, September is filled with various national and cultural observances (from honoring workers' contributions to labor movement/s, a large spectrum of reflections varying from repentance to renewal, or commemorations of different historical figures, etc.).
In our part of the world, these events imprint September with layers of meaning, such as: hard work, reflection, restoration and national pride. Exploring September’s unique character through insightful observations, historical contexts, cultural traditions and seasonal phenomena make it a month worthy of contemplation.

On the other hand, September’s natural and cultural rhythms influence human psychology, emphasizing transition and introspection. Psychologists note that transitional periods often provoke introspection and goal reassessment. After the more carefree and unstructured summer months, September’s arrival nudges individuals toward increased discipline and routine.

Many experience a "September momentum," where energy shifts toward productivity, creativity and new projects. This momentum aligns with the fresh academic cycle, new fiscal years for some organizations and even the natural circadian rhythm adjustments as daylight hours change.

For creatives, writers and thinkers, September can be one of the most fertile periods…energized by the return to “work mode”, but still buffered by the residual warmth and light of summer. The slow cooling and visual changes also stimulate sensory associations that inspire art, poetry and music.

Further, September serves as an important ecological indicator in the context of climate change, bringing forward some environmental insights. The timing of the autumnal equinox, leaf coloration onset and harvest cycles are shifting noticeable in many parts of the world. Many people clearly observed how earlier springs and delayed autumns affect agricultural yields, insect populations and wildlife migrations.

In British Columbia, for example, changing precipitation patterns may alter the traditional landscape of September: fewer clear, sunny days and more erratic weather may impact tourism, outdoor activities like hiking and the timing of ecosystem events like salmon spawning.

This ecological sensitivity underlines the importance of observing and respecting seasonal changes, and I believe that September invites a reconsideration of humanity’s relationship with nature and quite a loud call to adapt sustainably.

Also, throughout literature and popular culture, September is a recurrent motif symbolizing maturity, change and beauty of melancholy.

Famous poems like “To Autumn” (by John Keats) encapsulate September’s serene ripeness and productive stillness.

Music tracks from various genres often reference September’s bittersweet nature, celebrating the energetic joy of late summer fading into fall.

Film and many television shows often use September scenes to mark pivotal life events (like back-to-school nerves, nostalgic reflections or romantic encounters).

All these artistic depictions resonate because September represents the universal experiences of transition, of letting go and embracing of what is coming next.

Personally, I truly believe that is very beneficial to take some time to appreciate September’s unique qualities. This is the perfect time of the year to reconnect with nature (for instance, you can visit local parks or forests to witness the early stages of fall foliage…the experience in itself has lots of wellbeing benefits and it cultivates ecological awareness as well), you can set new goals (whether related to work, education, fitness or personal growth, you can use the momentum of September to initiate projects or reset habits), you can celebrate your community and local heritage (by participating to local cultural events or festivals this month you can increase the sense of belonging and cross-cultural understanding), you can practice mindful reflection (inspired by holidays like Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur, you can take time for introspection and forgiveness, which are valuable exercises for mental clarity and emotional health), or you can simply engage in seasonal cooking and preservation (it could be interesting to cook more with seasonal produce such as apples, squash and grapes, or you can learn new traditional preservation techniques like canning or fermenting).

As I conclude my little discourse about September, here are few thoughts about why September matters: in today’s fast-paced world, September invites the virtues of pause, preparation and presence…approaching it with awareness enriches our connection with the world’s rhythms and reveals timeless wisdom embedded in the dance of seasons.

In popular imagination, September is often overlooked, because the exuberance of summer is gone and the coziness of winter is yet to come…though, it is a pause, a hinge, a cadence of balance between extremes; its gifts are subtle…the delicate fading of light, the gentle coolness in the air, the reminder that every cycle must turn. It encourages us to both look back on what it was and lean forward with hopeful anticipation.

September is more than a month...it is a patient teacher,
helping us learn more about transformation, resilience, cyclical renewal and the beauty that resides in transitions.

Let us meet September with open hearts and keen eyes, while fully embracing its quiet magic.

August 31, 2025: ROMANIAN LANGUAGE Day

News: August 31, 2025

In honoring the Romanian Language Day,

here is the recognition I received from the Consulate General of Romanian, in Vancouver 

I’m presenting here the public notice (issued by the Consulate General of Romania in Vancouver, on their official Facebook page), which recognizes the continuous dedication of ALICE & Friends Circle™ in promoting abroad the beauty and meaningfulness of the Romanian culture and its linguistic heritage.

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The Romanian Language Day (celebrated annually on August 31^st) marks a profound homage to the Romanian language’s historical and cultural significance in Romania and globally. The celebration underscores the language’s role as a cornerstone of national identity and cultural heritage.

Romanian is not only the official language of Romanians, but also a profound symbol of national unity and heritage. For Romanians, their language is a living connection to their ancestors, reflecting centuries of tradition and resilience; it plays a crucial role in preserving collective memory and fostering a strong sense of belonging among the people. Romanian language acts as a vessel of cultural expression, literature and folklore, continuously reaffirming the nation's identity; its significance extends beyond communication, embodying the spirit and continuity of the Romanian people throughout history and into the present day.

Across diverse communities, cultural events and educational programs honor Romanian literature and linguistic traditions, fostering pride and continuity. 

Romanian Language Day thus continues to inspire awareness, respect and preservation of this Romance language that connects millions.

“People without knowledge of their own history are like a tree without roots.” (Nicolae Iorga) 

(Ro: ”Un popor care nu-și cunoaște istoria este ca un copac fără rădăcini.”)

This powerful quote, by the famous historian Nicolae Iorga, highlights the importance of knowing one’s language and history in order to maintain its cultural identity.

Ziua Limbii Române (sărbătorită anual pe data de 31 august), reprezintă un moment esențial de reflecție asupra importanței limbii române în conservarea identității culturale naționale și dezvoltarea sa continuă. În 2025, evenimentele academice, culturale și educaționale sunt menite să sublinieze rolul limbii ca liant fundamental între comunitățile vorbitoare, atât din România, cât și din diaspora. Prin stimularea utilizării corecte și promovarea patrimoniului lingvistic, această zi evidențiază eforturile de protejare a limbii în fața influențelor externe și digitale. Astfel, Ziua Limbii Române devine un prilej de unitate culturală și de apreciere a valorilor lingvistice ce definesc identitatea românească.

La mulţi ani tuturor vorbitorilor de limbă română! 

Omagiu Limbii Române – simbol al identității și demnității noastre, patrimoniu spiritual care ne unește din generație în generație.

Limba română este puntea dintre trecut și viitor, dintre oameni și comunități, dintre cei de aici și românii de pretutindeni.

Este comoara ce poartă în ea istorie, cultură și sperață.

”Este ziua ei! Ziua limbii române. Unii o stăpânesc atât de înalt, încât simți că te pierzi în adâncurile ei. Alții o vorbesc atât de curat încât nu crezi că ar putea exista alt grai mai mieros pe pământ. Sunt mulți care o denigrează și își batjocoresc limba. Îi auzi scormonind doar periferiile întunecate ale limbii, parcă ar vrea să sfâșie ce este mai curat din tezaurul moștenit de peste veacuri. Ce sfânt este să grăiești curat limba în care te-ai născut. Să te faci înțeles și să luminezi cu ea mulțimi. Cine stăpânește graiul poate conduce o națiune spre progres. Chiar și sărac și lipsit de influență de te-ai naște, de ai vorbi curat și limpede limba maternă ai putea să îți depășești condiția și să progresezi nelimitat. Ce bine ar fi să ne iubim limba ca și țara zi de zi. Nu doar la momentele comemorative și amintindu-ți de cei care i-au dăruit greutate prin scrierile lor transpuse în scris și suflare. Ce înseamnă să fi român, dacă nu să-ți iubești țara și limba, munții și văile, râurile și marea, oamenii și trecutul. Cum vom putea să-l cunoaștem pe Dumnezeu în adâncimea Sa, dacă nu îi vom înțelege cuvintele așezate în timpanul sufletului? Cum vom putea pătrunde înțelesurile Scripturii, cuvintele din spatele cuvintelor, înțelesurile dincolo de suprafață a frazelor, dacă nu stăpânim cele mai simple manifestării ale limbii materne? Ce declarații de dragoste putem înfăptui, cum putem să ne manifestăm admirația, în ce fel ne putem dezgoli amărăciunea și durerea, dacă nu vom știi să stăpânim atuurile limbii române? Un om de neînvins nu este cel care are capital de putere și influență nelimitată. Ci acela care a escaladat muntele de înălțime al graiului și își poate depăși concurența prin coerență și logică indubitabilă.”

● My previous greetings on the same theme: ROMANIAN LANGUAGE Day – 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021
NOTE: Dear readers, please be advised that on this website each of the previous postings, pertaining to the recurrent annual themes, portray a different perspective of the subject/s presented (same theme/s, but a different outlook without duplication due to the cultural richness of the specific topic/s discussed). 

Socializing: Summer picnic 2025, ikebana & jazz music

 COMUNICAT DE PRESĂ oferit de Alice / ALICE & Friends Circle™

15 august 2025: Evenimentul social anual al Cercului – Picnic estival 2025, cu demonstrație de artă ikebana și ritmuri de jazz

Pe data de 15 august 2025, sub egida ALICE & Friends Circle™ am organizat, în Vancouver, picnicul anual al Cercului, în pitorescul cadru al insulei Granville Island, într-o atmosferă care celebrează rafinamentul și echilibrul estetic. Evenimentul s-a desfășurat sub semnul artei florale japoneze Ikebana, precum și al sonorităților suave ale muzicii de jazz, menite să învăluie conversațiile și momentele de contemplare într-o tonalitate elegantă. Acest picnic tematic, dedicat artei tradiționale japoneze a ikebanei, a reunit prieteni dragi - oameni pasionați de artă, cultură, natură și creativitate.

Tot cu această ocazie am avut avut plăcerea să am alături câțiva invitați speciali, ca spre exemplu:

- Consulatul General al României la Vancouver a susținut acest eveniment al Cercului prin prezența doamnei Consul General Adjunct al României la Vancouver / Ministru Plenipotențiar, doamna Ștefana Rotaru, care printr-un frumos cuvânt și-a arătat aprecierea față de acest eveniment, față de tematica aleasă, față de audiența formată din români cu suflete frumoase, cât și față de invitata specială a acestei întâlniri – dna. Kati Horvath.

Prin dedicare și profesionalism, Consulatul reprezintă interesele României în vestul Canadei, sprijinind comunitatea românească și promovând colaborarea româno-canadiană în diverse domenii, inclusiv cel cultural, iar prezența oficialilor români la evenimentele Cercului aduce un suflu vibrant și o legătură puternică între România și diaspora din regiune, oferind totodată posibilitatea unei comunicări valoroase cu țara mamă.
- Invitata specială a picnic-ului anual a fost dna. Adelina Șuvagău, reprezentând Rompost TV. Evenimentul a fost filmat pentru televiziunea OMNI BC oferind ocazia de a aduce în prim-plan comunitatea românească din Vancouver. Cu experiența sa de peste 30 de ani în media, Adelina a contribuit prin profesionalism și implicare la crearea unei atmosfere deschise și autentice.
- Și nu în ultimul rând, invitata foarte specială a picnicului anual al Cercului, dna. Kati Horvath (biografia sa concisă în rubrica comentariilor), a adus o notă aparte evenimentului, ce a avut ca tematică arta florală. Prin măiestria și pasiunea ei pentru flori, dna. K. Horvath a reușit să transforme spațiul respectiv într-un veritabil tablou viu, plin de culoare și armonie, ce a reflectat idealurile estetice ale artei în toate formele sale. Prezența ei a fost o sursă de inspirație pentru toți participanții, iar talentul său a subliniat cât de mult poate natura să-și găsească expresia artistică prin aranjamentele florale. Astfel, dna. K. Horvath a reușit să fie un adevărat ambasador al artei în viața cotidiană, oferind o experiență de neuitat tuturor celor prezenți.

Tot cu această ocazie, aș dori să aduc în prim plan faptul că dna. Kati Horvath este fiica dnei. Marta Horvath (1935-2013; fostă balerină principală la Opera Națională Română, profesoară de balet la Alberta Ballet și profesoară/coregrafă la mai multe școli din Toronto și Vancouver; dna. Marta a fost un membru iubit al fiecărei comunități de care a aparținut; strălucirea, generozitatea, compasiunea și optimismul ei neclintit vor fi amintite cu bucurie și recunoștință de toți cei care au cunoscut-o.) & dlui. Ștefan Horvath [(1929-2021; fost director de imagine în Televiziunea Română, cunoscut pentru filmele ”Săgeata căpitanului Ion” (în 1973), ”Vin cicliștii” (în 1968) și ”Povestea dragostei”(în 1977)].

Ulterior o să revin cu un tablou mult mai amplu la adresa acestor distinse personaje ale României (fam. Marta & Ștefan Horvath). 

Acest eveniment al Cercului a oferit participanților ocazia de a explora și experimenta această formă rafinată de aranjament floral japonez, concentrându-se pe echilibrul liniilor, spațiului și armoniei cu mediul înconjurător.

Luând forma unui atelier interactiv focusat pe ikebana, într-o exprimare contemporană, prezentarea a fost moderată cu dibăcie de către dna. Kati Horvath, care a explicat cu multă grație și elocință originile, tehnicile esențiale ale acestei arte ancestrale, cât și principiile sale fundamentale – echilibrul, liniile și utilizarea spațiului.

Pe parcursul acestei întâlniri, invitații mei au avut parte de o sesiune practică, discuții și schimburi de idei, precum și momente de relaxare în aer liber, promovând totodată conexiunea între oameni și natură. Atmosfera a fost completată de muzică ambientală subtilă de jazz și gustări specifice, creând un cadru propice pentru inspirație și dialog cultural.

Acest eveniment al Cercului a consolidat și mai mult importanța patrimoniului cultural în comunitate, dar și angajamentul Cercului în a promova diversitatea artistică și educațională în Vancouver și împrejurimi.

Caldele mele mulțumiri tuturor participanților care au făcut acest eveniment memorabil!

Cu apreciere,

Alice

Founder & Executive Director of ALICE & Friends Circle™ (a Romanian-Canadian literary & socio-cultural GROUP) 

PS #1: Într-un viitor nu foarte îndepărtat o să revin cu un colaj foto mult mai detaliat.

PS #2: Aici vă includ link-urile unor articole recent scrise în aliniament cu tematica în speță, cât și o poezie pe care doar ce am compus-o. Vă doresc lectură plăcută!

POEM: "The Sensibility of Flowers" (composed by Alice V.) |     What is IKEBANA? |     The influence of flowers in our everyday lives

PS #3: În rubrica comentariilor găsiți mesajul trimis înspre publicare din partea invitatei mele speciale – dna. Kati Horvath.
PS #4: Dragii mei, tot referitor la comentariile din cadrul secțiunii respective: de obicei evenimentele sociale ale Cercului nu au această rubrică deschisă, însă în acest caz am făcut o excepție pentru a da posibilitatea invitaților mei de a-și exprima în direct impresiile dobândite. Mulțumiri anticipate pentru aportul scontat!

PS #5: Dear friends, if you wish to translate the content of this press release into any other language, please use the automated translator installed at the bottom of this page. Thank you!

For your enjoyment, here is some soft jazz music, much like the warm notes we listened to at this event...

● A social media POSTING  featuring our annual summer picnic published on their official face-book page,
by the GENERAL CONSULATE OF ROMANIA IN VANCOUVER

POEM: "The Sensibility of Flowers"

Immerse yourself in a world where timeless classical melodies bloom like flowers.

POEM: "The Sensibility of Flowers"

            (composed by Alice V.) 

Beneath the whisper of the morning light,

Each petal wakes with fragile, soft embrace,

A tender heart that senses day and night,

Responding quiet to the world's vast grace.

They bend to winds with elegant refrain,

Yet hold their ground when storms arise and roar,

In whispered hues, they speak without a strain,

Silent emotions rooted to the core. 

Their beauty is not just seen, but deeply felt,

A subtle language woven through their veins,

In blooms that teach what human hearts have dwelt,

The strength in softness and the grace in pain.

Flowers remind us all to gently be,

Attuned, sincere, to nature’s melody.

Here is a classical music collection, from legendary composers like Mozart, Beethoven, Bach, Chopin and Vivaldi...
~ perfect for relaxation, reflection or simply enjoying a peaceful moment surrounded by nature ~

What is IKEBANA?

Ikebana, the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement, embodies a unique elegance that transcends mere decoration. It is a profound expression of harmony, mindfulness and spirituality, reflecting centuries of cultural evolution and philosophical depth.

Historically speaking, if we are referring to its origins, Ikebana's roots trace back over 1,400 years to the introduction of Buddhism into Japan, in the 6^th century. Initially, the practice was a religious one, where monks offered flowers on temple altars as offerings. These humble beginnings marked the birth of what was then called “kuge”, simple floral offerings symbolizing reverence and gratitude toward nature and divinity.

As Japanese culture flourished during the Heian period (794–1185), ikebana evolved beyond religious ritual into a refined artistic expression embraced by the aristocracy. The “Ikenobo” school (the oldest and most respected school), was established during the 15^th century, formalizing rules and aesthetics that remain influential today. This period saw ikebana transition from an act of faith to an art form steeped in symbolism, technique and a deep connection to the natural world.
Throughout subsequent eras, including the Muromachi, Edo and Meiji periods, ikebana adapted to societal shifts and new influences.
The introduction of contemplation concepts brought simplicity, mindfulness and minimalism to the forefront, while Western influences in the 19^th and 20^th centuries inspired new styles, expanding ikebana's creative potential without forsaking its intrinsic philosophies.

At its core, ikebana conveys a philosophy much deeper than flower arrangement. It embodies harmony between the higher realms, earth and man. The basic elements are carefully arranged to create balance, symbolism and meaning, capturing the interconnectedness of all things.
Ikebana also embraces the Japanese aesthetic principle of wabi-sabi, which celebrates simplicity, imperfection and the transient nature of life. Unlike Western floral arrangements that often emphasize abundance and color, ikebana seeks beauty in minimalism and the spaces between – a concept known as ma. In ikebana, negative space is alive; it breathes and provides harmony, inviting contemplation and reflection.
The practice is contemplative at its heart. Each cut, each stem placement is deliberate, encouraging mindfulness and presence. This slow focused engagement cultivates calm, self-awareness and a deep connection to nature, aligning with peaceful teachings. The art is as much about the process of arranging as it is about the final piece, nicely emphasizing a beautiful conversation between the artist and nature.

Foundational principles and elements of Ikebana
Several core principles distinguish ikebana from other floral arts, so here are few of them.
· Simplicity and minimalism: Every element is intentional. Extraneous blooms are removed to reveal the essence of the arrangement. The care with which nothing is superfluous encourages an appreciation of natural beauty in its purest form.
· Asymmetry: Unlike the symmetry favored in Western designs, ikebana thrives on asymmetry, mirroring nature's organic irregularities, adding dynamic balance.
· Line and form: The arrangement emphasizes the lines created by stems and branches, fostering an elegant sculptural quality. The expressiveness often comes from these linear forms rather than massed flowerheads.
· Triangle structure: The relationship between the three main lines (representing the sky, the earth and humanity) forms a triangular composition that guides the artist's design and ensures harmony.
· Negative space (Ma): The empty space around and within the arrangement is a vital, living component, offering breathing room and elevating the beauty of the flowers and branches themselves.
· Seasonality: The use of seasonal flowers and branches connects the arrangement to nature’s cycles, reinforcing the themes of impermanence and renewal.

Styles and schools
Ikebana encompasses numerous schools and styles, each with its specific characteristics and distinct techniques.
· Ikenobo school: The origin of ikebana. It is known for highly structured styles like rikka, which symbolizes natural landscapes with majestic, intricate compositions, and shoka, which uses simpler triangular forms to express harmony.
· Ohara school: Famous for developing the moribana style, which uses shallow containers and metal flower frogs (kenzan). Moribana allows greater freedom to mimic natural landscapes and incorporate Western flowers, blending tradition with modernity.
· Sogetsu school: Founded in the 20^th century, Sogetsu embraces a free form of ikebana known as jiyuuka (free flowers) encouraging artistic experimentation and the use of unconventional materials like metal or glass. It democratizes ikebana, positioning it as contemporary art suited for varied environments.
These schools demonstrate the adaptability of ikebana, showing how it honors tradition while inspiring creativity and personal expression. Their teachings continue to evolve, making ikebana a living art form that resonates in contemporary culture globally.

Ikebana practice and the tools needed to put together such a flower arrangement
· About the tools: Essential tools include ikenobo floral scissors designed for clean cuts, kenzan or flower frog bases to secure stems and appropriate vessels carefully chosen for their size, shape and color to complement the arrangement.
· About the creative process: The process starts with selecting materials that speak to the artist or the season. The tallest stem (shin) sets the tone and direction. The accompanying stems (soe and tai) complete the triangular balance with intentional placements and angles. Smaller accents may be added sparingly, emphasizing elegance and restraint.
· About the appropriate state of mind: The artist is encouraged to cultivate a deep observation, patience and decisiveness. Each cut and placement demand awareness of nature’s flow and the arrangement's balance. This creative process fosters tranquillity and personal insight, transcending the physical act to become an artistic dialogue.

Despite its ancient origins, ikebana remains vibrant and growing in Japan and worldwide. It is taught from schools to workshops globally, celebrated in galleries, ceremonies and seasonal festivals. The art's emphasis on mindfulness and harmony resonates deeply in today’s fast-paced world, providing a pathway for reconnecting with nature, cultivating creativity and finding inner peace.
Contemporary innovations such as virtual and mixed-reality ikebana experiences illustrate its adaptability and future potential. Technology is being leveraged to democratize ikebana, making it accessible to individuals regardless of location or physical ability, ensuring this timeless tradition continues to inspire generations.

Ikebana is far more than an arrangement of blooms. It is a timeless practice that teaches us to appreciate impermanence, to find beauty in simplicity and to understand the delicate balance that sustains the universe. The silent poetry of its lines and spaces invites contemplation, mindfulness and emotional renewal.
Whether you approach ikebana as an art enthusiast, a contemplator, or a curious beginner, it offers a unique journey – one that blends nature’s gifts with human creativity, and tradition with personal expression. To arrange flowers in ikebana is, ultimately, to give life anew to nature’s fleeting beauty, creating harmony that touches both the eye and the soul.

Embrace the art of IKEBANA and
discover how living flowers can breathe new life into your perception of nature, beauty and self.

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References
· Modern Gardening Tips, "What Is Ikebana? + [Rules, Symbolism, and How To Get Started]"

· Blooming Secrets, "What Is The Japanese Art Of Ikebana?"
· Homes and Gardens, "What is ikebana? A florist explains, and shows how to do it"
· Hooked on Bonsai, "What Is Ikebana?"
· 500 Words of Something, "Ikebana Explained"
· Ikebana.be, "What Everybody Should Know About Ikebana?"

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