Reading & Writing Poetry

Who is the course for?

The course is aimed at anyone with an interest in reading or writing poetry. It may be that you have never studied poetry before, or may have a basic appreciation of poetic techniques such as rhyme and rhythm. It is also suitable for those who enjoy writing poetry or musical lyrics and would like to hone their skills.

What will I study?

The course will begin by introducing students to the poetry through the close reading of a variety of texts. This will familiarise those new to the genre with the traditions and techniques that underpin the course.

Students will then look more closely at different types of poems and their associated conventions, learning how to both recognise these and use them in their own writing. The course will include:

• Introduction to poetry: What is it? Who is it for?
• The Haiku and short poems
• The Sonnet
• Villanelles and Ballads
• Elegies and Odes
• Dramatic monologues/Narrative poetry
• Modern poetry: – to rhyme or not to rhyme?

At the end of the course students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of poetry of various forms and periods, and an understanding of the poetic vocabulary essential to the practice of literary criticism. They will also be in a position to produce and evaluate their own creative writing.

Students who enrol on this course may be interested in the Life-Writing and Poetry Writing courses. They may also wish to progress to the Access to HE Level 3 English Language and Literature course, and eventually the BA in English Language and Literary Studies.

How will the course be delivered?

Through classroom based activities, alongside a tutor and other delegates at a similar level. The course will also include interactive forums and tutorials via our Moodle virtual learning environment (i.e. online).

Course Entry Criteria

Although no prior experience is needed for the course, attendees should have an interest in the subject.

The college operates a no refunds policy as detailed below. Cancellations and transfer requests are subject to the following conditions:

• More than 4 weeks notice – no charge
• 4 weeks notice – 30% of the cost
• 2-3 weeks notice – 50% of the cost
• 1-2 weeks notice – 75% of the cost
• Less than 1 weeks notice – 100% of the cost

All cancellations must be made in writing and are subject to a £10 administration charge. The full fee’s policy is available on request.

What will I get at the end of the course?

You will receive a Blackburn College Certificate of attendance upon successful completion of the training.

What can I do next?

View our other creative courses here

How much does it cost?

The course fee is only £149.00 per person including all tuition/workshops/critique and a Blackburn College Certificate of Attendance. (prices are subject to change)