This course will guide you to find new things to write about in new ways, and will help you to move out of your comfort zone, should you wish to. It will also suggest new starting points for any problem poems to enable you to complete them more successfully.
You will learn how to create and edit memorable poems inspired by West Dean, its surroundings, your own experiences and the works of some of our most effective writers. You will develop your poetry-writing and poetry-reading skills while enhancing your understanding of the creative process.
Using workshop prompts, writing exercises and taking inspiration from the house and grounds, you will be shown how to write poetry in different forms and from new perspectives. Group reading and discussion will enable more confident solo writing and, through group workshops and one-to-one tutorials, you will learn self-editing and basic reviewing skills.
By the end of the course, you will have: a wider understanding of contemporary poetry and its roots, the creative process, selected poetic forms and techniques, and the effective use of rhythm, rhyme and metre. You will also have an increased ability to identify strengths and weaknesses in your writing and in that of others.
To succeed on this course, you will need to be willing to share your work with other participants and your tutor, write both alone and in collaboration, be willing to experiment with new ideas, join in group discussions to whatever degree you feel comfortable, and be prepared to give and receive constructive criticism.
What students need to bring
No later than one week before the course starts, please send up to two poems of your own and two poems by favourite poets to the tutor by emailing: [email protected]
Please bring a poem (one of your own or one by a favourite poet, which best demonstrates your preferred subject and style) to the first session.
Own laptops, tablets etc. are optional
Notebook/paper and pencils
Warm, waterproof outdoor clothing is advised for outside walks.
Available to buy
Available from shop:
Additional information
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals, and safety boots, if specified.
Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included)
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential
Daily timetable
Course teaching 9.15am - 5pm (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included for residential students)
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed
Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm (lunch included)
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am
Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required