Poetic licence

Press, 1 December 1987, Page 3

Poetic licence

An American poet, Roman Raia, turned his hand to a different style of writing in . Christchurch yesterday. After selling his verses outside the Arts Centre for three months, Mr Raia recently learnt that poetry is not immune from local authority bylaws. A City Council permit was necessary. “I understand that the council has received some complaints about my three dogs who sit with me while I sell my poems. But they usually spend the time asleep — many people actually seem to like them.” He also denied complaints that his poetry patch blocked the footpath. “I was told recently that I had to obtain a licence. The dogs are no problem — people take their pets to the tables outside the neighbouring cafe and my animals

certainly don’t annoy anyone. “I don’t want to be based in. Cathedral Square ... tbe crowds would upset the dogs. Writing poetry is my livelihood I just want to avoid any problems.” Yesterday afternoon Roman Raia left bis stanzas and completed an application form for a City Council licence. Council officers were sympathetic. The council’s director of environmental health, Mr David Batten, said he' was not sure what licence would be most appropriate for Mr Raia. “I doubt he’ll be able to stay in Worcester Street at the Arts Centre because we have had complaints about the footpath being blocked there. But I’m sure we can find somewhere for him and a licence that fits.” A poetic licence?