In this generative workshop, we will read in community and write in response together “under the influence” of the selected poets. First, we will read poems aloud (Ocean Vuong & Mary Jo Bang, among others) that focus on ways we perceive the self. Reading aloud allows us to open both eye and ear to appreciate the poem’s craft, and we let the poems speak for themselves (note: this is not a discussion-based class where we talk “about” the poems). Then, guided by prompts drawn from the poems, we will write independently, drafting our own experience. We’ll close with the option to share our work. Get ready to jump into an engaging evening!
About the instructor:
Laura Van Prooyen is author of three collections of poetry: Frances of the Wider Field (Lily Poetry Review Books) a finalist for the Helen C. Smith Memorial Award for Best Book of Poetry, Texas Institute of Letters; Our House Was on Fire (Ashland Poetry Press) nominated by Philip Levine and winner of the McGovern Prize; and Inkblot and Altar (Pecan Grove Press). She is also co-author of Text Structures from Poetry, a book of writing lessons for educators of grades 4-12 (Corwin Literacy). Van Prooyen is the Managing Editor for The Cortland Review, facilitates free online workshops with Community Building Art Works for healthcare workers (www.cbaw.org), is the founder of Next Page Press www.nextpage-press.com and teaches poetry as visiting faculty at Trinity University. She lives in San Antonio, TX. www.lauravanprooyen.com
About our ticket fees:
Your ticket purchase is an investment not only in your voice, but in our literary community. The Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing is dedicated to helping create a sustainable local and national literary arts community. The general rate for our PWS classes is only $25 per hour of instruction. The pay scale is designed in favor of instructors, ensuring that the majority of all ticket sales goes to them. Any additional profit allows us to offer discounts, scholarship seats, and occasionally free educational programs. To inquire about whether or not you are eligible for a discount code, please send an email to: pipercenter.info@asu.edu
