'The ACT – home to fewer than half a million people, and housing less than two per cent of the national population – is a very small community, but one that is interesting, energetic, and creative. It is not particularly representative of Australia; the people are, on average, a bit younger, more likely to be employed, earning a higher annual income, and significantly more likely to hold higher degrees than other Australians. And it is, of course, the federal capital, which means that its life beyond the Parliamentary Triangle is often overlooked by commentators on this community. Despite this, it offers a fertile ground for the writing and reading of poetry.' (Introduction)