WRITING X 431.1

Learn the basic techniques of poetry writing in this introductory course combining writing exercises and workshopping.

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Duration

As few as 11 weeks

Units

3.0

Current Formats

In Person

Cost

Starting at $820.00

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What you can learn.

Understand how poetry differs from prose

Identify sources of poetic inspiration

Learn techniques for workshopping and revising poems

Complete exercises to expand your poetry skills

About This Course

What is a poem and how does it differ from prose? What sources can you, the beginning poet, look to for ideas and inspiration? How can you encourage a raw unfinished poem to become a thing of power and beauty? This course provides a series of enjoyable and illuminating exercises to expand your imagination and introduce you to the complex issues of craft and revision in an accessible way. Of value to those who have never written as well as those with some experience who seek new direction and feedback.

Fall 2026 Schedule

Date

Details

Format

September 24 - December 3

Thursday 7:00PM - 10:00PM PT

Instructor:

Rick Bursky

REG#

409764

Fee:

$820.00

In Person

UCLA Extension Lindbrook Center in Westwood

Updating...

Notes

No meeting November 26.

Enrollment limited to 15 students; early enrollment advised. Visitors not permitted. Internet access required. Materials required.

This course meets in person at the designated class meeting time and location. Students must be present at the course meeting time as each student’s final grade may include scores for participation. Please inform your instructor if you will miss a class meeting. You are responsible for any class information you missed. We suggest you arrange with a fellow classmate to share their notes when feasible.

Deadline

Refunds only available from July 27, 2026 to October 04, 2026

Course Requirements

Internet access required to retrieve course materials.

(Optional) Book: A Field Guide to Contemporary Poetry and Poetics by Stuart Friebert, David Walker and David Young

Oberlin College Press

ISBN 9780932440778

Schedule

Type

Date

Time

Location

Discussion

Thu Sep 24, 2026

7:00PM PT - 10:00PM PT