To expand a little on that previous message
supporting Tracy's points:

For someone who has an at least professional commitment
to writing, who travels there and back, using up probably
a full day, what would be the problem with a fee of #200
plus expenses, if it could be provided? People, I take it,
are paying to get in.
Should poets not be paid as actors and musicians are?
OK some readers of this list don't like Motion's
poetry (it's not my top choice) but why shouldn't a poet such
as Maggie O'Sullivan, Denise Riley, Tracy Ryan, Tom Raworth,
Barry MacSweeney, Cris Cheek receive a proper fee?
How would they do so unless paid readings generally take place?

TL
___________________________
Dr Tony Lopez
Reader in Poetry
University of Plymouth
Faculty of Arts & Education
Douglas Avenue
Exmouth
EX8 2AT
UK

tel: 1395 255418
fax: 1395 264196
______________________


%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%