Poetry does not sit still during periods of civil unrest, and neither will we. In this timely and relevant workshop, we will read and discuss poems by Gwendolyn Brooks, Amiri Baraka, Nikki Giovanni, June Jordan, Ross Gay and others. Throughout time, these Black poets, and many more, have resisted and reported on political regimes. By paying close attention to how each poet crafts their response, we will write our own poems using prompts that incorporate these tools. We will also spend time sharing both our new work and discoveries. Literature can’t create a revolution, but it can offer protest and redress during these tumultuous times.
WORKSHOP
Saturday, October 17 – Sunday, October 18, 2020
12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EDT each day
Led by Celeste Doaks
On Saturday, we will discuss poems by Black authors that address the social injustices in Black lives from different perspectives. We’ll discuss what we observe about these poems and do some writing in response to what they stir within us. Then Celeste will give us a larger prompt and send us off to write until Sunday.
We will reconvene on Sunday to further discuss craft as well as share pieces of our new drafts. We will leave this workshop revived with a sense of motivation to speak out about the injustices we see.
Limited to 20 participants. Register today!
“You created a positive and supportive environment with opportunities to analyze, discuss, create and connect. I enjoyed meeting fellow writers and giving and receiving feedback.”
~ Andrea, Tenafly, NJ
FACULTY
Workshop Leader
Celeste Doaks is the author of Cornrows and Cornfields (Wrecking Ball Press, UK, 2015). She is also the editor of—and contributor in—the poetry anthology Not Without Our Laughter: Poems of Humor, Joy, and Sexuality (Mason Jar Press, 2017). Her chapbook, American Herstory, was Backbone Press’s 2018 first prize chapbook winner. Her journalism and reviews have appeared in Ms. Magazine, Huffington Post, Village Voice, Time Out New York and The Millions. A Pushcart Prize nominee, her poems have been published in multiple online and print publications such as The Rumpus, Chicago Quarterly Review, Asheville Poetry Review, Baltimore Magazine and many others. Celeste currently teaches creative writing at Stevenson University. For more visit doaksgirl.com or find her on Instagram and Twitter at @thedoaksgirl.
“Great teacher, great structure, great participants, smooth technology. A pleasure from beginning to end.”
~ Elissa, Pompton Plains, NJ
How it Works
Technical Requirements
You will need a computer or tablet and internet access in order to use Zoom. To fully participate, you will need access to a webcam and microphone. Those built in to a laptop, tablet or smart phone will do.
Saturday schedule – EDT
| 12:30 p.m. | Welcome, craft discussion and freewrite |
| 2:00 | Break for writing time |
Sunday schedule – EDT
| 12:30 p.m. | Reconvene for sharing and discussion |
| 2:00 | Workshop concludes |
Pricing + Registration
Tuition — Sliding Scale: $25-$75
Tuition for this program is based on a sliding scale between $25 and $75.
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. If any fee—even $25—will prevent you from writing with us for this program, please email us at info@murphywriting.com.
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 October 3 — 50% credit toward one of our upcoming programs
- After October 3 — No refund
“Extremely welcoming and accessible atmosphere! All technical aspects were well done. Wonderful writing prompts and guidance in a great group of participants.”
~ Nina, New York, NY
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I’m new to writing workshops. Will I fit in?
Absolutely. This program will benefit both beginning and experienced writers. We pride ourselves on building an encouraging community of writers where all feel welcome.
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 workshop. You can participate using a laptop or desktop computer, or even a tablet or smart phone.
Meet our Community
View our full collection of Writing Getaway photos.
Questions?
Call 609-626-3594 or email info@murphywriting.com.
Write with us.
