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Participants in face to face courses must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and must comply with any other precautionary measures Writing NSW puts in place.

In this workshop with Michelle Cahill, you will learn skills to enhance your enjoyment of writing and editing poems and short prose. How do we write about everyday living, using random facts, ancillaries, streams of consciousness, impressions that float and fly, lists, archival footnotes and snippets? How does poetic language address/embody subjects like relationships, politics, climate or the natural world?

We’ll look at poems and short prose by Australian and international writers, considering repetitions, syntax, real time elements, the lyric pulse and narrative logic as well as some more experimental features such as using numbered sections or an epistolary form. Overall, these skills support a deeper engagement with writing texts in the lyric and prose form preparing budding writers to gain confidence and deepen their enjoyment.

Participants are also encouraged to share responses, to create and hone their techniques and craft. Workshopping is a respectful, interactive practice that sustains the ancient art. We focus on the embodied aspects of verse and lyrical prose: voice and form. You’ll meet other writers so you can continue to be inspired, network with and support each other as a group.

Is this course right for you? Read our FAQ >

Expected learning outcomes

Participants will improve their understanding of:

• Writing and editing poetry and short prose.
• Drawing on facts, everyday life observations and stream of consciousness to craft poetry and short prose.
• Using poetic techniques to enhance lyrical short prose and poetry writing.

This workshop takes place at Writing NSW in Sydney.

Participant requirements

Please read our FAQ before enrolling.

Pen and paper, or fully charged device. You are invited to bring a creative piece for the group to workshop.

If you have questions about this course and/or COVID-safe guidelines, please contact us.

More from Writing NSW

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