The Poem That Awed the Outside Summit

On May 29, at the Outside Summit in Denver, poet Bobby LeFebre performed his original poem ‘The Cathedral,’ which many attendees described as one of the most moving moments of the gathering. The poem emphasizes the sacredness of nature and the importance of reconnecting with the natural world, resonating deeply with those present.

LeFebre, who served as Colorado’s Poet Laureate from 2019 to 2023, recited ‘The Cathedral’ during the second day of the Outside Days Industry Conference, part of the larger Outside Days festival. The poem celebrates the wilderness as a living, sacred space that offers humility, renewal, and a reminder of human insignificance and wonder. Following the performance, many requests for the poem’s text and video have been made, leading to its public sharing.

The poem describes natural landscapes—from mountain peaks and alpine lakes to forests and deserts—as living entities that teach humility and reverence. LeFebre urges people to step outside, to experience the wilderness firsthand, and to remember the ancient, sacred connection humans have with the land. The piece underscores a critique of modern society’s obsession with convenience and digital connection, contrasting it with the timeless, restorative power of nature.

Cultural Impact of the Poem at the Summit

The performance of ‘The Cathedral’ highlights a growing cultural emphasis on reconnecting with nature amid increasing digital distraction. It underscores the importance of outdoor experiences for mental and spiritual well-being, especially in a society that often prioritizes convenience over genuine connection with the environment. The widespread sharing of the poem indicates its resonance and potential influence on outdoor and environmental communities.

Background of the Outside Summit and LeFebre’s Role

The Outside Summit is an annual gathering of outdoor industry leaders, enthusiasts, and cultural figures, held in Denver. It aims to foster conversations about outdoor recreation, conservation, and cultural expression. Bobby LeFebre, a prominent poet and former Colorado Poet Laureate, has been known for integrating themes of nature and community into his work. His performance at the summit marked a notable moment where art intersected with outdoor culture, emphasizing the spiritual and communal aspects of nature.

LeFebre’s poem ‘The Cathedral’ was written specifically for this event, reflecting themes of wilderness as sacred space and humanity’s need for renewal through nature. The poem’s delivery was widely praised for its emotional depth and relevance to the outdoor community’s values.

“LeFebre’s poem was one of the most powerful moments of the summit. It made us see the wilderness as a living cathedral, sacred and alive.”

— an anonymous attendee

Unconfirmed Details About Public Reception and Future Use

While the poem’s performance and immediate reactions are confirmed, it is not yet clear how the poem will influence future outdoor cultural events or whether it will be incorporated into educational or conservation initiatives. The long-term impact on the outdoor community remains to be seen.

Next Steps for Sharing and Promoting the Poem

The full text and video of ‘The Cathedral’ have been publicly shared, allowing wider access. It is expected that the poem will continue to circulate within outdoor, artistic, and environmental circles, potentially inspiring related projects or discussions about nature’s sacredness and human connection. Organizers may also feature the poem in future events or campaigns to promote outdoor engagement.

Key Questions

Who is Bobby LeFebre?

Bobby LeFebre is a writer, performer, and former Poet Laureate of Colorado, known for his work exploring themes of community, nature, and cultural identity.

What is the significance of the poem ‘The Cathedral’?

The poem celebrates nature as a sacred, living space that offers humility and renewal. It encourages people to reconnect with the outdoors and recognize its spiritual importance.

How was the poem received at the summit?

Many attendees described it as one of the most affecting moments of the event, with widespread requests for its text and video after the performance.

Will the poem influence future outdoor events?

While the poem has been shared publicly, its long-term influence on outdoor and cultural initiatives remains to be seen.

Where can I see the full poem and video?

The full text and live performance video have been made available online, accessible through the Outside website and related platforms.

Source: Outside