Let’s play with words!
The Writers’ Workshop focuses on technique to help participants write more creatively and effectively.
The sessions present a unique opportunity for youth and adults to work closely with their peers.
Over a given time frame, I teach specific, hands-on techniques for writing poetry and prose.
The emphasis is on the reading-discussion-writing cycle. We attend to, but do not primarily fix on, the use of poetic devices such as simile, metaphor, and traditional literary forms. Moreover, I teach a variety of strategies and a range of perspectives that are step-by-step, easy to follow, and designed to provide fresh ideas for the writing process.
Photo Credit: John Wood, Chatham County Schools; Courtesy of Chatham Arts Council.The Method
During each session, we:
Read exemplary sample poems and prose to reference as an integral part of the workshop process.
Discuss strategies regarding craft.
Work from writing prompts.
Write first drafts.
Share the drafts during the session to receive constructive feedback.
Critique each others work and focus on whether the writer's deep intention is successfully rendered.
Revise the work as a way to further the poem’s development.
Explore the elements of character, image, scene, situation, tension, connections, structure, imagination, voice, and meaning.
Build on what we explore and pay close attention to the wonderful things that make poetry and prose alive.
Support the development and progress of each writer.
Produce new work.
The main goal of the Writer’s Workshop is to help participants focus entirely on their own creative growth and work.
Upcoming Workshops
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Workshop Reviews
"In my university class, in just a single visit, Phillip Shabazz ignited, inspired, and fully engaged the students. His poems moved them; students saw life in a new light; students fully understood for the first time the power of the spoken word, rhythm, and flow; and students’ passions for writing and expressing what they have to say were rekindled with excitement and confidence.
Phillip is an inspiring and talented educator who will empower everyone who takes his workshops."
Barbara Rhoades - Professor at Elon University