Poetry Meets Running: A Warm-Up for the Falmouth Road Race

On the eve of the Falmouth Road Race, the Falmouth Public Library is proud to host a special poetry reading with author and scientist Jon Hare on Saturday, August 16 at 2:00 PM in the Hermann Foundation Meeting Room. Hare will present selections from his new collection, Woods Hole Senryu—a poetic tribute to the quirks, contrasts, and character of Woods Hole.

Written in the style of senryu, a short Japanese poetic form similar to haiku, Woods Hole Senryu uses humor and insight to reflect on human nature and local life. Through the lens of a scientist and a runner, Hare offers a uniquely personal and geographic journey that begins and ends in Woods Hole—mirroring the route of the famed Falmouth Road Race.

“Running for me is a time to think—almost meditative,” Hare says. “Many of these poems were shaped while I ran. The order of the poems follows the geography—from Woods Hole, up to Falmouth, and back. The first half is essentially the Road Race course, and my time training for the Road Race deeply influenced this collection.”

Attendees are also invited to write their own senryu or haiku on provided postcards and enjoy light refreshments inspired by race day—think protein bars, reusable water bottles, and other runner-friendly snacks. There will even be a book giveaway!

Join us for an afternoon of thoughtful humor and local insight as Hare shares poems inspired by movement, observation, and the vibrant spirit of the Falmouth community.

Celebrate the power of poetry and place—just in time for race weekend.

This event is free and open to the public. We recommend registering. 

For more information, contact the Falmouth Public Library at (508) 457-2555 or visit www.falmouthpubliclibrary.org.