The 12th annual Vietnam Poetry Day, themed “Nation’s Spring – From Dien Bien to Truong Sa” opened in Hanoi’s Temple of Literature on February 14 with a series of poetry recitals by writers from across the city.
They read varied verses on Vietnam’s seas and islands, the beauty of nature, love and modern living.

In his opening remarks, President of the Vietnam Writers’ Association (VWA) Huu Thinh said the February 13-14 event aims to fuel patriotism and a public sense of responsibility for sea and island sovereignty.

An exchange will be held between poets and artists who once fought during the Dien Bien Phu battle against the French.

In and outside the temple, books, calligraphy scripts and souvenirs are on offer. Visitors are also able to meet and talk with popular poets.

On the opening day of the festival, poets of all ages came representing the VWA, poetry clubs and universities.

As a follow-up to the event, artists and poets will stage performances in the northern mountainous province of Hoa Binh, Son La and Dien Bien from March 11-14.-VNA