In 322, we will read a variety of poets—Blake, Whitman, Plath, Wright, Pinsky, Ai, to name just a few—and practice close study of a range of poetic elements. We will try new forms, sound patterns, and themes. Students will be expected to write ten to twelve new poems and produce a portfolio at the semester's end, in addition to writing a short response paper and giving a presentation on a contemporary poet. We will use an anthology of modern and contemporary poetry as our central text. In class, students will also read and discuss each other's work. Sometimes we will write in class; very often, assignments will center on an exercise: imitating another poet, for example, or working from tabloid headlines or overheard conversations. Come prepared to devote considerable time to composition, revision and critique, to read new poets, and to try new ways of writing.

Texts:

The Vintage Book of Contemporary Poetry, Ed. J.D. McClatchy
The Poet’s Companion: A Guide to the Pleasures of Writing Poetry Addonizio & Laux