Join us for this five-week online poetry workshop focused on documentary poetics. Write to inspiring prompts, get insightful feedback and connect with a supportive community of writers.
Online WORKSHOP
Thursday, February 17 – Thursday, March 17, 2022
Each Thursday, 7:00-9:00pm EDT/EST
Led by Stephanie Cawley
Limited to 12 participants
“Poetry can extend the document.” ~Muriel Rukeyser
If you are tired of writing what you know, try writing what you learn.
In this workshop, you will develop and write a series of poems or a long poem that investigates a subject that matters to you. We will read examples of documentary poetry to learn how writers have used poetry to approach subjects like the Louisiana prison system, Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, the American invasions in Iraq and Afghanistan, the U.S.-Mexico border and even their own family histories. You will learn strategies to conduct research as a writer and methods for composing poetry that make use of what you learn, including collage, erasure, persona and more.
Each week, you will receive craft notes, readings and prompts to inspire your writing. As you write, you will share your work with your fellow participants and your workshop leader to receive feedback.
Beginning and experienced writers welcome. You can use this workshop to develop or deepen a work already in progress, or to find a new subject to explore.
“The course was well structured. Stephanie kept in touch on a regular basis through comments and emails. I really enjoyed getting feedback from other participants.”
~ Susan, Boca Raton, FL
FACULTY
Workshop Leader
Stephanie Cawley is the author of My Heart But Not My Heart, winner of the Slope Book Prize chosen by Solmaz Sharif, and the chapbook A Wilderness from Gazing Grain Press. Her poems and other writing appear in Verse Daily, The Boston Review, The PEN Poetry Series and West Branch, among other places. She holds an MFA from the University of Pittsburgh and lives in Philadelphia. Her next book Animal Mineral is forthcoming from YesYes Books in 2022. Learn more at stephaniecawley.com.
“This was a fabulous workshop! I would definitely take another, and refer other writers. It was challenging and made me stretch myself in ways I would not have done if writing on my own. I give major kudos to Stephanie Cawley for her detailed and insightful feedback on my work. I feel very fortunate to have found this forum!”
~ Cynthia, Wilmington, DE
How It Works
Schedule
The course will be held over Zoom for five Thursdays, 7:00-9:00pm EDT/EST:
- Thursday, February 17 (EST)
- Thursday, February 24 (EST)
- Thursday, March 3 (EST)
- Thursday, March 10 (EST)
- Thursday, March 17 (EDT)
Each week’s materials will be made available beforehand, so you have a chance to review them ahead of time.
You will receive further details about each deadline and assignment once you enroll in the course.
technical requirements
Materials for the course will be shared using a free online platform called Canvas. You will need a computer or tablet and internet access in order to use Canvas. You will also need access to word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word).
Weekly sessions will be held over the platform Zoom. To fully participate in these, you will need access to a webcam and microphone. Those built in to a laptop, tablet or smart phone will do.
Pricing + Registration
Tuition — Sliding Scale: $350-$450
Tuition for this program is based on a sliding scale between $350 and $450. If you are able to pay at the higher end of the scale, you will help Murphy Writing offer affordable programming and scholarships for writers.
Tuition INCLUDEs
- A curated selection of readings, craft notes and prompts to inspire you each week
- Access to a private space for sharing your writing with your workshop leader and fellow participants
- Five 2-hour Zoom calls with your workshop leader and fellow participants
If you have trouble registering online, or if you don’t receive an email confirming your online registration within 24 hours, email us at info@murphywriting.com.
The Fine Print
- By registering for this program, you are agreeing to uphold our Code of Conduct
- Full fee due upon registration
Cancellation Policy
- By February 10 — 50% credit toward one of our upcoming programs
- After February 10 — No refund
“The readings were interesting and informative. The assignments and feedback were excellent. The pace felt just right for me, even with other responsibilities.”
~ Deborah, Egg Harbor City, NJ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I’m new to writing workshops. Will I fit in?
Absolutely! Our experienced workshop leaders plan their courses to benefit both beginning and experienced writers. We pride ourselves on building an encouraging community of writers where all feel welcome.
I’ve taken dozens of workshops. What will I get out of this one?
Our faculty challenge experienced writers to push beyond their usual limits. If you have been writing for decades, they will compel you to go deeper, take more risks and experiment with form and content. We know that experienced writers benefit from our programs based on the fact that hundreds of “re-PETERs” have attended three or more of our writing getaways.
I’ve never taken an online workshop before. Do I need special equipment?
No. If you’re reading this website, you probably have everything you need to take this course. You can participate using a laptop or desktop computer, or even a tablet or smart phone.
I’ve already taken this course. Can I take it again?
Yes. Although some materials and prompts will be the same, there will be some new ones too. The new format also allows for five group meetings.
meet our community
View our full collection of Writing Getaway photos.
Questions?
Call 609-626-3594 or email info@murphywriting.com.
Write with us.
