“DC Celebrates Whitman” starts soon.

Saturday, April 16, 10:00 to 11:30 am
Whitman Guided Meditation
Friends Meeting of Washington, 2111 Florida Ave. NW, Dupont Circle
neighborhood, DC.
Did Whitman really meditate? Based on the writings of Whitman’s close friend Dr. Richard Maurice Bucke and Whitman’s own poems and journals, participants will replicate what we know about Whitman’s meditation practice, and investigate how the poet accessed spiritual dimensons that gave him mystical insight. Practitioners of meditation or those curious about Whitman’s spirituality will find this session of
special interest. 1.5 hours, including meditation exercise, commentary, and
discussion. Led by Neil Richardson. Limited to 20 people. Advance reservations required by emailing ananda001@aol.com. Sponsored by the Washington Friends of Walt Whitman. Free admission, although donations will be accepted to defray costs.

Saturday, April 16, Noon to 5:00 pm
Leaves of Grass Marathon Reading
The George Washington University, The Marvin Center, 800 21st St. NW,
Room 307/The Kayser Room, Foggy Bottom neighborhood, DC. (202)
994-6180.
An all-day Saturday event! We will read the entire 1855 first edition of this classic of American literature, in honor of the 150th anniversary of its publication. Dividing the text into small sections, Whitman’s masterpiece will be read by poets, scholars, actors, politicians–and you! Participants may reserve a reading slot in
advance by emailing carly.sachs@gmail.com–or simply show up on Saturday and sign up then. Hosted by Rosemary Winslow and David McAleavey. Sponsored by the George Washington University Department of English. Free Admission.