Writing poems is a complex, mysterious, and beautiful process that entails deep listening— to the totality of our senses, thoughts, feelings, as well as what we remember.

We tend to look at the language of poems as separate from the conditions of its production— when, really, just as our experiences are sieved by the physical body, so must language pass through and be held by it.

In this workshop, we will read and write poems that listen deeply to the body—human, animal, plant, and other bodies—to see how the body helps us find both the language and the forms that the poem needs.

Guided by our conversations and writing prompts, we will aim to write poems not only to think about what has marked or hurt the body— but also to remember and celebrate what can nourish and imbue it with groundedness and a sense of (re)connection.

Please note: This class or event is hybrid. Some attendees will be in-person and some will attend online. There may be a limited number of in-person seats available. If you are participating online (using Zoom or a similar live platform), students or attendees should have a stable internet connection. Class participants: you should have a computer or device with a webcam and microphone; and your Zoom link will be automatically sent to you after you register. Check your spam box if you don't see it.