Your drafts folder is overflowing with poems in various states of completion. Maybe some are polished (even published!), but others are still rough. You’ve thought about gathering them together and creating a chapbook one day, but the thought feels daunting. Where to even begin? How do you choose poems that work together, structure a book, or figure out when it’s done?
In this class, you’ll get step-by-step support for creating your own chapbook. You’ll learn about chapbook structure, length, how to begin choosing and arranging your poems, and tips on finding a publisher. You’ll also get supportive, big-picture feedback on your manuscript-in-progress, including major themes, ideas for ordering the poems, book structure, and areas of strength and room for growth.
This class is limited to 9 students.
Who this is for
Writers who have 15-25 poems they want to consider for a manuscript. It’s ok if some (or most!) of the poems aren’t finished. It’s also ok if you don’t know whether they all go together or not.
Those who have experience giving and receiving feedback on poetry. You’ll be reading and commenting on others’ manuscripts, so it’s important that you are comfortable with this.
Those who can commit to spending 1-2 hours on readings, giving feedback, and other homework each week.
Who this is not for
Those who are new to writing poetry.
Those who don’t have experience giving and receiving feedback on their writing.
Writers who don’t have at least 15 poems they want to consider for a manuscript.
Tuition: $450
Get $50 off if you register by September 15.
Final registration deadline: September 25.
Payment plans and several $300 economic hardship spots are available for those who need them.
Schedule (subject to change)
WEEK 1:
What are chapbooks and why create one?
Where are you on your chapbook journey?
How do you choose poems?
Discuss readings
WEEK 2
Discuss readings
How do you order your poems?
Class worktime
WEEK 3
Show and tell: ordering your poems
Discuss readings
Review workshop guidelines
Workshop 1
WEEK 4
Check in
Workshop 2
Workshop 3
WEEK 5
Check in
Workshop 4
Workshop 5
WEEK 6
Check in
Workshop 6
Workshop 7
WEEK 7
Check in
Workshop 8
Workshop 9
WEEK 8
How do you know when it’s done?
Publishing discussion and resources
Closing reflection
Cancellation Policy
If you cancel 10 or more days before the class starts, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel after that time, you will receive a recording and handouts from the class (online classes only) or credit toward a future class, depending on your preference.
If you cancel on the day of the class, don't show up, or leave early, you will not receive either a refund or credit.
On rare occasions, I may need to cancel a class due to unforeseen circumstances. If that happens, I will do my best to reschedule for a time when all students can attend.