Class Description
Immerse yourself in the rich tradition of poetic dialogue by exploring various forms of engagement with existing poems. From imitation, homage, and parody to commentary, conversations, arguments, and fresh perspectives, learn to craft poems that engage with the works of other writers, past and contemporary, as well as to use others' poems as "prompts" for your own writing. Through readings, writing exercises, peer workshops, and critical discussions, participants will develop their poetic skills while fostering a deeper appreciation for contemporary poetry and literary tradition. We will also consider revision techniques and the writing processes of those whose poems we admire and examine “influence anxiety” to parse the difference between inspiration and exploitation.
Julie Benesh, PhD, MFA, is author of the forthcoming poetry collection Initial Conditions, and the chapbook About Time. Her work has appeared in Tin House, Bestial Noise: A Tin House Fiction Reader, Crab Orchard Review, Another Chicago Magazine, Florida Review, and elsewhere.
Materials List
Required
- Instructor-Distributed Materials
Cost and Registration
4 sessions, $226 ($203 for Newberry members, seniors, and students). Learn about becoming a member.
To register multiple people for this class, please go through the course calendar in Learning Stream, our registration platform. When you select the course and register, you’ll be prompted to add another registrant.
Support the Newberry
Your generosity is vital in keeping the library’s programs, exhibitions, and reading rooms free and accessible to everyone.
Make a Gift