Button Press
In the ever-evolving world of poetry, finding a space where voices can be heard and nurtured is essential. Enter Button Press, a new-but-old-school Facebook page created by Belfast based poet Marty McKenna to provide just that—a platform for poets to share, network, and find support within a thriving community.
The idea for Button Press sprouted from a simple, yet deeply personal, tradition between Marty and his daughter Roisin. Over the years, they would exchange cards with “button press” written on the backs, a phrase that became a symbolic gesture of connection. It was this intimate exchange that inspired Marty to create a space where poets could foster connections—between each other and find a space to share their craft.
Marty McKenna, a poet and a passionate advocate for the local poetry scene, says that Button Press is more than just a place to post poems—it’s about building a community that encourages mutual support. “Initially, the page was created to share my own poems,” Marty explains, “but I thought, why not give something back to the vibrant Belfast poetry scene?” And so, the page quickly expanded into something much larger: a platform for poets to feature their work and engage in constructive feedback.
In 2023, Marty received a second grant from The University of Atypical, which allowed him to explore new creative horizons through nine mentoring sessions with poet Deirdre Cartmill. Marty credits this experience with unlocking new dimensions in his work—a transformation that inspired him to offer a similar opportunity to others. His role as one of seven Poets in Residence with Translink this year, organized by poet and friend Niamh McNally, has given him the confidence to share his poetry with the public, and now, he’s extending that same encouragement to other emerging poets.
One of Marty’s exciting plans for Button Press is to hold a night of readings featuring 24 ‘featured poets’ from the page. Additionally, he intends to produce a chapbook showcasing their poems along with his analysis of each piece—a valuable opportunity for poets to gain exposure and feedback on their work.
If you’re a poet looking for community and support, Button Press might be the perfect place for you. To become a hosted poet or learn more, simply follow this link to the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/people/Button-press/61556009624511, or send a poem to exquestation@gmail.com. Everyone is welcome to join in the conversation and contribute to this literary network.
Order Marty McKenna’s work here https://martymckenna.bigcartel.com/
