Creative Writing: UNSAYABLE, A Writing Intensive

Poetry is a means of seeing invisible things and saying unspeakable things about them. – Howard Nemerov

If there is a book you really want to read but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it. – Toni Morrison

At a time when much of our lives is subject to formless and invisible influences – media trends, social and political tensions, the current health crisis – we need the skills of creative writing more than ever. In this workshop (for beginning and advanced writers), you will explore poetry and storytelling, their history and future, and even challenge ideas about modern communication. Examine some older voices and discover a few new ones, including your own. You will create new work using college-level prompts, apply professional tools for editing, learn how to submit work to publishers, and cultivate a live performance. No previous experience is needed.

Classes will meet once a week for writing, reading, discussion, games, special guests and a few surprises. Make sure you have a good internet connection, a preferred electronic device with WiFi access, standard writing equipment like pens and paper, and (most important of all) a sense of wonder. You may also want to bring some examples of writing you enjoy. We all have something to teach each other.

This workshop is the perfect opportunity for you to meet new friends and potential collaborators from all over the world who share your passion for writing. It might even help you get a headstart on your own school projects. It is the perfect enhancement to your current writing practice and school curriculum.

Weekly Class Schedule

• Class hours: 10 am – 12 pm PDT/PST
• Office hours: 12:15-1:15 pm PDT/PST [by appointment]

Find the full schedule here.

Meet Your Faculty

Brendan Constantine is the author of four books of poetry. His work has appeared in most of the nation’s standards including Best American Poetry, Poem-a-Day, Poetry Northwest, and Tin House. A popular performer, he has read for audiences throughout the U.S. and Europe, also appearing on NPR, TED ED, numerous podcasts, and YouTube. He holds an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts and currently teaches at the Windward School.  Since 2017, Brendan has been developing poetry workshops for people with Aphasia.

Website: http://brendanconstantine.com/
Twitter: @poetbrendan

What You Will Need

• Good internet connection 
• Any electronic device that has access to the internet (phone, tablet, computer, iPod, etc.) 
• Make sure your device is charged before class begins
• Writing material such as pen and paper or a reliable computer with a word processing program (Microsoft Word preferred)       

If you have never used Zoom, check out this Zoom tutorial.