Frequently Asked Questions
Live typewriter poetry at events
How does live typewriter poetry work?
Your guest sits down and answers a few questions — a word, a memory, a person they want to recognize. The conversation takes three to five minutes. The poem is then composed and typed in real time on a manual typewriter while the guest watches, read aloud, and given to them.
How many poems can you write in an hour?
Output varies by conversation depth and guest flow. A single poet can write between 10 and 20 poems per hour.
How long is a typical booking?
Typical engagements run two to four hours.
What do you need from the venue?
A single table, approximately 4-5 feet wide, with one or two chairs for guests. Power is not required for the typewriters. We bring signage and battery-powered accent lamps.
Do we need to provide staff?
No. The service is fully self-staffed, with setup and breakdown handled independently.
Can the poems be typed on our own paper?
Standard archival paper is provided. Custom paper, card stock, or client-branded letterhead is available on request.
How far ahead should we book?
Two to three months in advance is recommended for most events.
Where do you travel?
Based in Charlottesville, Virginia. Available for events throughout Virginia and the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Travel to other regions considered.
Commissions
What is the difference between a VIP poem commission and commissioning a poem?
VIP poem commissions are researched, framed poems written ahead of an event for board members, conference VIPs, speakers or principal guests. Commission a Poem is for one custom poem as a personal gift, mailed to your door.
How far ahead should VIP commissions be ordered?
VIP poem commissions require a minimum of four weeks.
How much does a personal poem commission cost?
A custom poem is $75. The price covers composing your poem, typing a frame-worthy copy on a vintage typewriter, secure packaging, USPS Priority Mail shipping with tracking, and credit card processing fees.
How long does a personal poem take?
Please allow at least three weeks from the day you order to the day you need the poem.
How do I pay for a personal poem?
After you submit the commission form, you are taken to a page with a link to pay securely by card through Square. Writing begins once payment is received.
Poem-crafted Cocktails®
What is Poem-crafted Cocktails®?
A Friday-night event at Speakeasy & Whiskey Bar at the Doyle Hotel in Charlottesville, 8 to 10 PM, usually on the first and third Friday of each month. Guests sign up when they arrive; each receives a typewritten poem, and the bartender creates a cocktail based on it. Dates are announced on Facebook and Instagram. More about Poem-crafted Cocktails®.