**This class will be taught on Zoom**
There are many ways to enter a poem. The most common way is with something you want to express, and you find the language to do it. Another way to enter a poem is to have fun playing with language, and then, in the process of writing, discover what you want to express. The Art of Invention involves tuning into the depths of your creative Source, taking the images one step further, and letting the language itself lead you somewhere unexpected. Each session includes an inventive writing exercise, the “Writer’s Toolbox” to help your writing become more expressive, and a reading/feedback circle. Diane works closely with every writer to help you break through to a deeper level of expression.
This workshop includes:
* The Art of Invention.
* The joy of playing with language.
* Inviting dream images into your poems
* Taking everything one step further.
* The fine line between memoir and fiction.
* Closure and the narrative arc in a leaping poem.
Week 1:
Introduction to the Art of Invention
The joy of playing with language.
The Writer’s Toolbox: Ten practical ideas about how to write with power, beauty and wisdom.
A writing session with an inspiring and provocative seed idea.
Reading circle, where writers have the opportunity to share what they have written. .
Week 2:
Freeing yourself from autobiography.
The synergy of story and invention.
The Writer’s Toolbox – Techniques to write with power, style and vision.
A gentle approach to workshopping poems and stories
Workshop of writing by course participants.
Week 3:
Letting the language lead you somewhere unexpected.
Taking everything one step further.
The Writer’s Toolbox – Techniques to write with power, style and vision.
Workshop of writing by course participants.
Week 4:
The freedom to be inventive
Memory is idiosyncratic. If you don’t remember, invent it.
Adding the dream voice to your writing.
The Writer’s Toolbox – based on the needs of writers in the workshop.
Workshop of writing by course participants.
Week 5:
The technique of deconstruction.
The Writer’s Toolbox: Virtuoso Editing Techniques
Workshop of writing by course participants.
Week 6:
Open discussion of any remaining issues in anyone’s writing process.
Exploring the mystery of language
Ways to stay inspired and keep writing.
Workshop of poems by course participants
