Description
Megan Ugle speaks for herself in this musical evocation of the way things are, and the way things were. And she speaks up for herself, and for others, when she feels the sting of injustice. And she speaks of country and to country and for country. She acknowledges the Old People, the Ancestors, as she unpicks and unpacks her family tree. She is the quiet witness, sometimes shy and almost uncertain, but she has a voice and she uses it well. This book glows with the serenity of hard-won knowledge and acceptance. — Jennifer Compton
This book is a search for peace within oneself and nature’s natural elements as they vibrate through your inner soul. Feel the warmth of the fire that flickers in the distance, sit under an olive tree and feel the strength, shade, and substance that she has provided for generations. Wildflowers express to you their beauty of colour as the moon rises in the distance to turn the tides of time. Become entuned with understanding the healing of country that connects all of us physically, mentally and spiritually. Learn to respect mother nature through song, dance, and storytelling from the many lessons of life that have been passed down from one generation to another. — Trevor Ryan
Ballardong Yorga Megan Ugle’s Serenity Wargada weaves together country (boodja), family (moort) and self (ngany) into her first poetry collection. Serenity Wargada takes the reader on a journey onto and into Noongar country weaving together stories of fire, trees, water, wildflowers, seasons, and the moon. Megan’s storytelling navigates memories of family and highlights the importance of moort through her childhood memories and father memories. Her story woven on these pages offers insight into self-feelings, emotions, love, and writing through the life of a Ballardong Yorga, with country and family firmly by her side. — Charmaine Papertalk Green
Megan Ugle was born on Ballardong country in Beverley. She grew up in Brookton and is the second eldest of five siblings. Megan has spent the majority of her working life in service to her people through social and community services.
Megan now devotes her time to raising her three beautiful children and resides in Boddington with her family. She is passionate about healing through writing and art.
About Green Leaves / Red River
Green Leaves / Red River is a collaboration between Centre for Stories and Red River. The project supports eight poets from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to publish their first book of poetry. The project also provides editorial fellowships to emerging editors. It has been made possible with funding from the West Australian Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.
The series is a collaboration that connects people from different cities with different histories and different experiences, all towards creating a poetic culture that is distinct and unique. With a focus on artistic excellence, Green Leaves / Red River nurtures new voices and supports poets no matter their place in the world. It is a way to share opportunities, to think in an original way, and to continue making poetry visible and valued.
We are proud of the work we can do based here in New Delhi and Perth, and acknowledge the traditional owners of both places. Thanks to the readers and dedicated to all the poets out there, Green Leaves / Red River will entertain, intrigue and enlighten you.