Dharma Geeks: Dharma Bums - the poetry of Kerouac and the Beat Generation
“We’ve been waiting for you
Since Morning, Jack
Why were you so long
Dallying in the sooty room?
This transcendental Brilliance
Is the better part
(of Nothingness
I sing)”
Dharma Geeks is a gathering for people who enjoy thinking creatively together about Dharmic ideas as they show up in everyday life. Each session centres on a single theme—an idea we spend time with through practice, reflection, and conversation.
The starting point for this Dharma Geeks session is a dog-eared copy of Pomes All Sizes by Jack Kerouac, with its introduction by Allen Ginsberg—a book I’ve been carrying around since the early 90s. Kerouac’s poems opened a doorway into another world, one where art and Buddhism collide. Through the poetry and music of the Dharma Bums, we’ll explore their messy yet intense and creative approach to practice—and experiment with bringing some of that same spontaneity into our own meditation.
All times are GMT (UK Time)
Part One (10:00–11:00) · Introduction and meditation
After a brief welcome, I’ll offer some of my own reflections on the theme to set the scene, along with a few questions for personal reflection. The morning will include a short qigong session and a guided meditation, both connected to the theme.
Part Two (11:15–12:00) · Creative conversation
After a short break and some quiet time for individual reflection, we’ll come back together for a shared, creative conversation. While our starting point is Dharmic, other perspectives are very welcome—artistic, philosophical, religious, or personal. We don’t need to stay within purely rational discussion either; you’re welcome to bring a poem, image, or story.
You’re welcome to leave after the first part if you’d prefer to stay with your own reflections, or you can join us for the conversation that follows.
Dharma Geeks is not an academic study group, and it’s not about arriving at answers. It’s for people who get a kick out of exploring ideas together, and who are curious about how they can be lived and practised in everyday life.
In case you can’t make it on the day part one of the session will be recorded. After the event I'll send out a video and audio recording as well as any quotes or links from the session.
Choose the price that feels right to you -
£20 Supporter
£15 Regular
£10 Concession
If finances are very tight, please get in touch for a free spot.