The Grand Marais Public Library is excited to invite people to workshop their poems on Wednesday, November 15, from 5:30-7:30 PM. This workshop is intended for anyone ages sixteen and up, at all skill levels.

Librarian Ryan Leng will facilitate the two-hour workshop. In addition to group reading and reaction to other participants’ poetry, the workshop will include the analysis of published poetry, teaching of poetic techniques, and group exercises to develop ideas. Attendees will discuss open-ended questions of poetry, including how to start, how to finish, and how to know whether a poem is good. To get the most out of this workshop, participants should bring drafts of poems, however short or fragmentary, as well as ideas for new poems.

Prior to becoming a Grand Marais librarian, Ryan Leng taught English for ten years to secondary students, including students in both AP English Literature and AP English Language, with success helping students find their voices not only for writing essays about poetry, but also for writing poetry of their own. Ryan understands how difficult poetry can be, as well as how much courage and vulnerability it takes to read aloud unfinished poems; consequently, he has designed this workshop to ensure that the learning environment is comfortable and respectful to all participants.

There is no registration required. Attendees should bring paper as well as a pen or pencil. Non-alcoholic beverages with lids are welcome. For more details ahead of the workshop, you may email Ryan at [email protected].

The Grand Marais Public Library’s mission is to increase knowledge, inspire creativity, remove barriers, and build community across Cook County. Our fax service is now available at the library for 50¢ per page and a $5.00 maximum.