Deep Dive Poetic Study: William Stafford

John Sibley Williams is starting a new series called Deep Dives, which will leap headfirst into a series of poems from one incredible poet, analyzing and actively discussing their work…then writing based on multiple prompts inspired by that poet.

This first Deep Dive will be studying the poems of the National Book Award-winning pacifist poet/activist William Stafford.

Details

Date: Friday, January 26, 2024 @ 1pm-3:30pm PT

Tuition: $45

Platform: Zoom

To register, go here: https://www.johnsibleywilliams.com/upcoming-classes

About

One of America’s most prolific poets, William Stafford (1914-1993) is, according to James Dickey in his book Babel to Byzantium, “a real poet, a born poet,” whose “natural mode of speech is a gentle, mystical, half-mocking and highly personal daydreaming about the western United States.” A consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress and a National Book Award winner, he often employed unique descriptions and worldly details to imply larger, universal human themes. A pacificist and conscientious objector, Stafford also participated in outdoor work camps during World War II, and these experiences were the basis for many of his more politically oriented poems.

This workshop will delve deeply into a number of Stafford’s poems, including his themes, style, and perspective, focusing on his nature, political, and compassionate poems, via active group discussion and writing prompts and some writing time to help you engage more directly with and be inspired by his work…putting his lessons into practice. And the class includes a 22-page handout!

More information can be found here: https://www.johnsibleywilliams.com/upcoming-classes.