Poetry Masterclass
3rd October and repeated 7th November 2010 • University of London Union • Ages 15-18
‘Great to have the opportunity to write poetry for the first time in many years – this has inspired me to continue.’ – Poetry Masterclass Student
The Debate Chamber Poetry Masterclass is a day-length workshop for students aged 15-18 who want to improve their poetic technique and exchange ideas with other young writers. The class will centre on the theme of imagery, and will examine, from a writer’s perspective, how this device is used to develop structure and meaning in poetry. In the morning we will discuss examples of praise poems and odes from different cultures, using them as springboards to practice the crafting of precise and evocative descriptive language. In the afternoon we will examine the use of metaphorical reasoning in the work of a number of contemporary poets. We will compare and contrast how image shapes these works, and each student will experiment with several short works of their own to share with the class. The poems that we read and write during the Masterclass will focus on simple objects and everyday scenes, and the emotional responses they provoke.
True Ease in Writing comes from Art, not Chance,
As those move easiest who have learn’d to dance,
– Alexander Pope
During the course you will work with tutors to develop your style, achieve a more precise and powerful use of language, and discover practical exercises to help you develop your writing. As a participant in the Poetry Masterclass you will have the chance to share and discuss your compositions with your fellow students, and receive expert advice and constructive criticism from tutors. You will work in groups to analyse a wide selection of short poems ranging from ancient to contemporary and including foreign writings in translation. By learning the skills of close reading and effective writing together, the young poet is able to discover his or her own voice through an exploration of how others achieve their effects.
No experience is required to take part in the Poetry Masterclass.
In order to keep class size small a maximum of twelve places are available for the Poetry Masterclass.
Tutors
The lead tutor for the course is Sonia Gomez. Sonia holds a Master of Fine Arts in Poetry from the University of Washington, and a BA in English Literature from the University of Oregon. Most recently she worked for human development and education programmes at UNDP and UNICEF in Sri Lanka, and she has previously taught Creative Writing, English and History at a number of high schools in the United States
Feedback on previous Poetry Masterclasses
‘It was refreshing to learn about and discuss poems that are not in the exam syllabus. Sonia was amazing.’
‘Great to have the opportunity to write poetry for the first time in many years – this has inspired me to continue.’
‘Sonia was great!!!’
‘I really enjoyed it, it was good to have a space away from school to explore and analyse literature.’
‘I loved the course and I learnt so much. The poetry was beautiful and Sonia was kind and patient. I loved that it was a small group.’
‘It was informative, with a knowledgeable tutor and stimulating activities. A great opportunity to meet people who share my literary interests.’
‘Good fun! Gave me lots of ideas for writing.’
Book a place
The fee for the Poetry Masterclass is £85 per student. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Debate Chamber offers a limited number of full and partial bursaries for students who would otherwise have difficulty attending. To book a place please email info@debatechamber.com, call 0845 519 4827, or fill out the form below. If you are a teacher interested in holding a Poetry event at your school please click here.