In the heart of the indie literary landscape, Sunday Mornings at the River stands as a bastion for the voices that echo from the margins. Founded in 2012 by Rebecca Rijsdijk, this working-class poetry press defies the conventions of traditional publishing, championing the raw, the real, and the revolutionary.
Sunday Mornings at the River was born from the belief that poetry is not just an art form but a means of transformation—an instrument to challenge, to engage, and to awaken. Inspired by Salman Rushdie's assertion that the role of poetry is to "name the unnamable, to point at frauds, to take sides, start arguments, shape the world and stop it from going to sleep," the press publishes works that dare to disturb the status quo and inspire change.
At its core, Sunday Mornings at the River is about nurturing a vibrant literary community where poets, especially those sidelined by mainstream narratives, can find a home. Rebecca Rijsdijk, steering the press with dedication and an unwavering belief in equality and inclusivity, brings her working-class roots and her experiences as a woman in healthcare and a psychology student to the forefront of her mission. She is the solo force behind the press, juggling her commitment to poetry with her professional and academic pursuits.
The press is an advocate for marginalized voices—women, the chronically ill, and those pushed to the fringes of society. In a publishing industry often criticized for its gatekeeping, Sunday Mornings at the River opens doors, offering a platform for those whose stories and voices are too often ignored.
This commitment to radical verse and inclusivity has not gone unnoticed. Some of their publications have found a home in the prestigious National Poetry Library in London, and several of their poets have been recognized as Pushcart nominees. These accolades are a testament to the press's quality and its impact on the literary world.
For those looking to dive deeper into the ethos and operations of Sunday Mornings at the River, a forthcoming blog article promises a closer look at the press's approach to community transparency. This piece will offer readers and aspiring poets alike a glimpse into the inner workings of an indie press that is as much about fostering a sense of belonging as it is about publishing poetry.
Sunday Mornings at the River is more than a poetry press; it's a movement. It stands as a reminder that poetry can be a powerful force for advocacy, resistance, and community. Rebecca Rijsdijk's vision of a literary world where every voice has the chance to be heard is not just revolutionary; it's essential. In a world that often feels divided and disenchanted, Sunday Mornings at the River offers hope, a space where poetry becomes a bridge connecting disparate worlds, inviting us all to sit by the river and listen to the stories it has to tell.
Rebecca Rijsdijk is a multifaceted creative professional deeply engrossed in the realms of publishing and writing. Her academic journey in documentary photography at the Royal Academy of Arts has significantly broadened her creative horizons. Rijsdijk's creative endeavours are not just artistic expressions but are deeply rooted in addressing critical issues such as social justice, equality, and the complex dynamics of contemporary society. Her work is a conduit for sparking meaningful conversations, challenging established norms, and nurturing connections that resonate deeply.
As the founder of Sunday Mornings at the River, a small independent poetry press, Rijsdijk is dedicated to producing thought-provoking literature accessible to a wide audience. Drawing inspiration from luminaries such as Rebecca Solnit, Langston Hughes, Patti Smith, and Audre Lorde, she aspires for her writing to contribute towards fostering a more compassionate and open-minded world.
In addition to her creative ventures, Rijsdijk is also a psychology student and an activist. Driven by a compelling desire to amplify marginalised voices, increase awareness of critical issues, and catalyse positive societal change, she embodies the essence of an individual committed to making a significant impact.
