Intro to Poetry: Finding a Way In

"Many people say they don't 'get' poetry," says instructor Ben Jackson. "I don't always 'get' it either. But I know what my body feels, I know what my mind processes, and that’s enough for me to find my way into a poem, whether I’m the author or the reader. I 'get' poetry in my own way. I believe you can too.”

In this 3-week class, we’ll think about what makes poetry mysterious and pleasurable for each of us. During the first class meeting, we'll use poems we admire as springboards for drafting new work. In the second class, we'll delve into poems by writers such as Rick Barot, Derek Walcott, and Mary Szybist, paying close attention to imagery, rhythms, and forms. Through reading, craft discussions, and in-class writing, we’ll discover ways to shape and enliven our own fledgling poems. In the final class, we’ll optionally share our poetry with the group and give and receive light, encouraging feedback. We’ll also explore creative strategies to re-enter and re-imagine our poems-in-progress.

“My goal,” says Ben, “is to help you find comfort and excitement from the mysteries of poetry, and to do so by finding your own way in. Whether you are new to poetry or you are looking for deeper immersion into the art form, this class will show you a variety of ways to appreciate, learn from, and fall in love with both the reading and writing of poetry.”

About The Writing Salon's In-Person Classes

Before your class meets, you'll receive an email from The Writing Salon with more information about the class. If you have any questions about in-person learning, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@writingsalons.com.