Approaches to Poetry with Fiona Wright & Pip Smith

Where does a poem begin, and how might it take shape? This course aims to provide you with the perspectives and the tricks of the trade of two award-winning poets, in order to introduce you to some of the techniques and skills that go into crafting a successful poem. It will include exercises and experimentation with voice, with detail and place, and with adopting and adapting poetic forms and devices to play with structure and meaning. This workshop will be informative, playful and hands-on: throughout the day, you’ll workshop the poetry you write in class, trialling new poetic devices and approaches to form. By the end of class, you’ll be familiar with a range of poetic forms, and you’ll have both the confidence and enthusiasm to begin your next piece.

Expected Learning Outcomes:

1. Participants will learn about different approaches and ways of beginning a poem.
2. Participants will examine the role of place and voice in writing poetry.
3. Participants will gain familiarity with a number of poetic forms and devices with which to structure work.