Discover the transformative power of poetic erasure in this innovative workshop. Erasure poetry, also known as blackout poetry, is a form where poets create new works by selectively erasing words from existing texts, revealing hidden meanings and crafting entirely new narratives.

 

In this hands-on workshop, we will explore the history and significance of erasure poetry; learn various techniques for creating erasure poems; experiment with different source texts, from newspapers to classic literature; develop skills in finding and emphasizing poetic language within prose; discuss the interplay between visual presentation and poetic meaning.

 

We'll examine works by established erasure poets and practice creating our own pieces. You'll learn how this form can spark creativity, challenge traditional notions of authorship, and offer new perspectives on familiar texts. The workshop will include individual and collaborative exercises. We'll also discuss the ethical considerations of using source texts and how erasure can be a form of literary dialogue or social commentary.

 

By the end of the session, you'll have created several erasure poems and gained a new tool for poetic expression and textual exploration. This workshop is suitable for writers of all levels, from beginners to experienced poets looking to expand their creative toolkit. Materials will be provided, but feel free to bring any texts you'd like to experiment with.

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About the Instructor:

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Graham Barnhart is a US Army veteran and the author of The War Makes Everyone Lonely. His work has been recognized with a Wallace Stegner Fellowship, Pushcart Prize, and The Blackwell Prize. He currently lives in Oakland, CA.

 

Click here to learn more about Graham.

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LEFT MARGIN LIT'S CANCELLATION/REFUND POLICY:

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If you find that you can't take a class for which you registered, you may request a refund, less a $25 administrative fee, at least 48 hours prior to the start of the first class session. If a class doesn't reach its minimum enrollment, it will be cancelled, and all students will receive full refunds.