FRIDAYS, May 2nd - 23rd | Unlock the Poet Within: Transforming Tradition is a four-week workshop designed to explore how contemporary poets of color have reinvented traditional poetic forms to voice modern issues and personal experiences. Participants will delve into various forms such as sonnets, villanelles, and free verse, examining how these structures have been adapted to discuss societal themes. The class features a blend of engaging discussions, hands-on writing exercises, and interactive workshops, all aimed at expanding participants' creative boundaries and enhancing their appreciation of poetry.
Participants will achieve the following by the end of the course:
- Understand various poetic forms: Gain an in-depth understanding of traditional poetic structures and how they are being transformed by contemporary poets to express modern themes.
- Develop analytical skills: Enhance abilities to critically analyze and discuss poetry, focusing on the interaction between form and content.
- Enhance writing skills: Experiment with different poetic forms through weekly writing prompts that encourage personal expression and creativity.
- Participate in peer workshops: Engage in workshops where constructive feedback is shared, helping refine and improve each participant's poetic works.
- Study diverse poetic voices: Explore works by poets such as Terrance Hayes and Claudia Rankine, gaining insights into their thematic and technical approaches.
- Compile a portfolio: Assemble writings and course reflections into a portfolio that showcases individual growth and insights throughout the workshop.
Activities:
- Weekly poetic exploration: Analyze and discuss poems that exemplify innovative uses of traditional forms.
- Creative writing prompts: Tackle weekly challenges to create original poems, applying learned techniques and forms.
- Interactive workshops: Collaborate with peers in a workshop setting to refine writing and receive diverse feedback.
- Final portfolio project: Guide students in creating new poems to include as part of their portfolio.
This workshop is ideal for anyone interested in poetry, especially those looking to deepen their understanding of how traditional poetic forms can serve as powerful tools for both personal expression and social commentary. Participants will leave with a broadened perspective on poetry and new skills to enhance their own writing.