ABOUT THE WORKSHOP

Language As Symphony, Poet As Conductor

In this workshop we are going to focus on how language choice, repetition and return impacts the sonic qualities of a poem, not just as it is read out loud, but also the structure of language on the page as a portal into teaching a reader how to hear what you would like them to hear. We are going to both enter this exploration using texts of poems, but also songs, and song lyrics.

ABOUT THE POET

Hanif Abdurraqib is a poet from the east side of Columbus, Ohio. Learn more at Hanif's website.

ACCESSIBILITY

Accessibility is a core value for Split This Rock. We strive to provide programs, materials, and communications that allow people within the disability community to engage fully. Zoom auto-captions will be provided. Written versions of poem prompts and poems used for discussion will be provided via screen share, the chat, or links. 

Let us know of any accessibility questions or accommodation requests via the workshop registration form or by emailing [email protected] with "ACCESS REQUEST" in the subject line by Thursday, February 5th. Given our ongoing funding challenges, we cannot promise accessibility services, but will do our best to provide accommodations.

ABOUT SPLIT THIS ROCK

Split This Rock is the only national organization with a mission to integrate poetry and social justice. We materially support poets who are often excluded and underrepresented in the literary landscape, particularly those who are BIPOC, LGBTQ, disabled or chronically ill, and/or working class. With strong commitments to racial, gender, economic, and disability justice, we work to expand the horizons of inclusion and assert the transformative power of language to bear witness to injustice and provoke social change. We believe poetry acts as an agent for change by revealing the diversity and complexity of human experience, reflecting on daily lives and struggles, considering personal and social responsibility, and envisioning a better world. Learn more at Split This Rock's website.