What is it that makes something poetic?
Would you like to be better at understanding what poetry is? 
Would you like to engage with it in a more informed way?

After all, there are lots and lots of prosaic poems - not to mention poetic pieces of prose.

So what exactly makes the difference?

From regular forms like sonnets, villanelles, and Haiku to free verse, concrete verse, blank verse and visual poetry, the world of poetry is guaranteed to have something that will entrance you.

You already know a lot - about language, about music, about how things work and fit together.

On this course you will learn more about:

• The tools poets use to create works of poetry.
• The effects that various patterns have on you - and others.
• How to describe the feelings certain techniques have on you.
• How poets use metre, rhythm, rhyme and other techniques to create powerful effects.
• What the functions of regular poetic forms are and why poets use them - often instinctively
• How to cultivate poetic vision
• How to achieve a more poetic way of living

About Leon

Leon is a teacher steeped in the wonder and wisdom of the traditional integrated and integrative classical liberal arts, and is a keen supporter of living traditions, including living traditions of oral storytelling. He is author of several books including Aesop The Storyteller (Aladdin's Cave Press, 2008), a collection of 12 versified Aesopic fables, and History Riddles (Liberalis Books, 2013).

Requirements

Students will need standard stationery supplies, and access to digital resources, including word processing softward and EITHER a digital shared workplace OR a hard copy A4 ring-file binder with dividers. In both cases, they will need facilities to upload clear scans or pictures of homework tasks. All courses will be taught on line in a specialised learning environment - a fast broadband connection is advisable. Some background reading will be required.

Accessibility and Flexibility

Content will be adapted to individual levels and interests as much as possible. Special needs students can be provided for (please contact the tutor to discuss before enrolling) and assessments can be handed in via video rather than in written format, with videos uploaded to YouTube or WeTransfer and shared via private link on this site.