Like I Always Say….: How to Craft a Distinctive Poetic Voice

Using The Art of Voice: Poetic Principles & Practice, by Tony Hoagland, with Kay Cosgrove

Voice is among the most vital and mysterious elements in a poem. Each writer must hone her own distinctive written voice – by turns intimate, dynamic, contradictory, crass, cunning – in order to create a bond with readers. This intensive workshop is based on Tony Hoagland’s The Art of Voice: Poetic Principles & Practice, written with Kay Cosgrove. The Art of Voice is that rare creation: a witty, stylish, instructive literary exploration and craft guide. In this workshop, Tony’s co-author, Kay, will lead participants through discussions and exercises aimed at generating new work that is enlivened by their own compelling voices. We will address such questions as: What is poetic voice? How does a writer craft a convincing, complex and engaging voice on the page? What literary models offer great examples? We’ll consider: speech register, quoted text, intimacy, authority, and vernacular. Participants will leave with drafts of fresh poems, as well as with a new, or renewed understanding of the skills a writer can use to shape a memorable voice on the page. Come write with us!