I've been enjoyed CRW 205 much more since we started workshop. Running to the library on a Monday night in the rain to print poems at Penfield's "quick" print station isn't always what I want to do, but sitting down with all of the next day's poems is worthwhile more often than not. I usually read the poems over and time or two underlining and circling my favorite parts and slip the poems into my bag until the next day. But, when we actually begin workshop in class, I think it is fascinating to listen to my fellow poets bring their work to life. It is moving to hear someone passionately speak about heartbreak or describe a majestic beach scene. Often times poetry brings out the hurt and makes you connect with someone on a personal level. For example, Tiraya's poem last week about the "Bedroom Bully" gave me chills like never before. I guess what I'm trying to say is... We've all grown as writers and some of you guys are damn good! I love hearing what our Muses spill out on paper.
The downside to workshop (at least for me) is criticism. I really have a hard time hearing that my work is anything less than sufficient. Working hard on a piece simply to be told it needs to be adjusted and more detailed can get defeating... but accepting and applying criticism will be a part of all of our future careers. In a way, I enjoy being thrown into situations I am uncomfortable with because in the end, I grow as a writer and a person.
Have you guys been enjoying workshop? How do you feel about criticism?
Good luck finishing up poet projects and portfolios everyone!
In writng poetry I always run into the trouble of figuring out how to best use my vocabulary spinning in my head to best convey my thoughts and feelings about my work. It happens often where I would stare at the computer for hours trying to determine my next sentence to follow. One way that has helped me better illustrate my thoughts is through the use of patterns. Being a lover of art, I've started to turn to the use of warping my poem into visual images to better connect myself and readers with my feelings and vocabulary. I don't remember what excercise helped me figure this out but I'm keeping it because it works for me. If anyone can figure out what style fits them best, keep it and continue working on what can make you an even more powerful poet.
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