Do you have a pile of journals that you've kept for years? Do you keep a journal but think of it as separate from your writing process for your other work? Have you ever wondered how those pages might spark new creative work? Over the course of four weeks, you'll learn a variety of hands-on techniques to transform something you've already written in your journal into stand-alone poems. You'll also learn different ways to write about your daily life, from observing your environment to meditating on your artistic dreams.
Each week, we’ll explore published poets who draw inspiration from their diaries, then try hands-on exercises to turn our raw thoughts into art. You'll also receive weekly journaling prompts and write together in class, sometimes in response to excerpts from Rick Rubin's The Creative Act, which dwells in koan-like mode on the ups and downs of making a piece of art, be it a poem, an album, a play, or any aesthetic object. By the end, you’ll have a handful of poems and a renewed sense of your journal as a lifelong creative resource. No previous poetry writing experience is required.
• In-Class Writing Lift: Medium
• Homework: Required
• Workshopping Drafts: Optional
Nathaniel Rosenthalis is the author of three books of poetry, including Works and Days (Broken Sleep Books) and The Leniad (Broken Sleep Books). He teaches writing at NYU. Also an actor and singer, he is a member of Actors Enquiry and works in musical theater in NYC.
"Nathaniel completely demystified the elusive prose poem for me! Not only did he cover a wide range of examples with close readings, but he provided accessible prompts to get us into a first draft of our own. He also gave us creative tools to use in our practice, making the process fun instead of daunting. I came away from his class with much possibility and excitement!"
"Nathaniel gave me generous feedback, which has given me incredible direction for where to go with my piece. Thank you!"
