Imaginary Gardens with Real Toads: Using Imagery in Poems [Jane Wong]

How can we create an image to encapsulate an idea, an emotion, a state of mind? We will explore the power of imagery as a means of crystallizing an idea. We will seek out and sift through the visual material of the world to find the “right” image for what we want to say. We will consider poems rich with imagery (both real and surreal) by Wallace Stevens, Marianne Moore, Paul Celan, Ed Skoog, Chelsea Minnis, and others. Along with readings, the class will include generative writing prompts and mini-workshops.