English 221 - Writing Poetry I

An introductory course in the writing of poetry. The most basic elements of a poem are voice and breath. How can these simple elements surprise, move, illuminate, delight and shake us, as a poem must? In this course, we will take up this question by exploring a wide range of contemporary poetic voices. Using the techniques we discover, we will work toward developing our own powerful, persuasive voices on the page. We’ll consider form, musicality, syntax, imagery, diction, tone, stanza shapes, the nature of the line and more.  A portion of each class will be spent engaging directly with each other’s work in a workshop format. Open to any student interested in discovering the joys and challenges of writing poetry and in practicing the rudiments of the craft.

Reading and writing exercises weekly. Students should expect to share their work, in class, many times during the semester. Readings may include Natasha Trethewey, Tishani Doshi, Aracelis Girmay, Layli Longsoldier, Danez Smith, Li-Young Lee, Louise Glück, Anne Carson and Roger Reeves.

Admission with consent of the instructor. Limited to 12 students. Fall semester section 01: Lecturer Kapur. Fall semester section 02: Writer-in-Residence Abraham. Spring semester: James Merrill Visiting Poet Merrill.

How to handle overenrollment: The instructor will seek to achieve representative equity (majors, class years, gender, background, etc.).

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Emphasis on written work, readings, oral presentations, artistic work.