Poetry from the Underworld with Lesley Wheeler

with Lesley Wheeler

Sunday, June 28

3-6 p.m. Eastern

Google Meet

Sliding Scale

What feeds us—and frightens us—sometimes lurks underground, like fungal networks, fantastic caves, and weirdly shaped vegetables in root cellars. Poetry has a way of bringing what’s hidden into the light while still honoring its mystery. What’s buried, after all, can sometimes flower. If you’re willing to open that basement door or lift that mossy rock, join us in this generative workshop. We’ll begin by considering how other poets explore underground spaces, including the current U.S. Poet Laureate, Arthur Sze. Writing prompts will get you digging. Writers who wish to can share what they unearth. We’ll also discuss how to develop these drafts, keeping in mind that strong poems often balance disclosure with enigma, manifestation with evocation. Finally, participants will lead the way toward whatever further enlightenment they need, possibly how to establish a fruitful writing practice, revise toward greater poetic power, or submit work for publication.