Richard Blanco
Illuminating Poetry for Everyone
Workshops
Why and How I Write and Teach Poetry
As an immigrant from a lower working-class family, I felt shut-out from the arts, especially poetry. That’s why I empathize with anyone who has felt—or still feels—the same in some way. I strive to democratize poetry and meet you at every level of your experience, whether you’re a novice or the highly seasoned poet. I encourage writing poetry that is authentic and accessible, even while emotionally complex—accessibility and complexity are not antonyms.
As a civil engineer and a poet—or poet-engineer—I value not only the creative, right-brained aspects of writing poetry, but also the practical, left-brained aspects, believing that language is engineered, to a degree. I also support and honor the many different paths that lead us to poetry, understanding how we all—including me—strive to find a balance between our day jobs and our vocations as poets.
As a queer child and gay man, the practice of poetry allowed me to see my truest self, and instilled in me the courage to accept and love myself. I hold a deep sense of empathy and compassion for all who feel marginalized, and consider it a privilege to serve as a guide on your journeys toward self-discovery and self- worth through the art of poetry.
For inquiries about any of the following offerings, please contact:
POETRY COMMUNITY FREE CONTENT
Workshops
Poetics of Protest
“When power leads men towards arrogance, poetry reminds him of his limitations. When power narrows the areas of man’s concern, poetry reminds him of the richness and diversity of existence. When power corrupts, poetry cleanses.”
– President John F. Kennedy, groundbreaking ceremony, Robert Frost Library, Amherst College, 1963
In these times of social and political upheaval, poetry can help us name and navigate our unrest, frustration, and anger—and begin to restore a sense of agency and hope. It offers a poetic light at the end of the tunnel.
In our first session, we’ll read poets of protest, both historical and contemporary, and explore what makes a political poem resonate—how craft, voice, and vision turn outrage into art. With this inspiration and understanding, you’ll write your own poems of protest, which we’ll share and workshop in the second session.
Live webinar via Zoom, limited to 15 participants
February 22nd, 10:30 am – 12:30 pm EST
March 1st, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm EST.
One-on-one Coaching
Mini Portfolio Review
Have you been writing poetry for some time and workshopped a few, here and there; and wonder how your poems measure up thematically, craft-wise, or otherwise? Or are you a poet-in-the-closet who’s been writing for quite a while but has been hesitant to share your work with others because you need a compassionate and nurturing space to do so? Or have you just begun to dip your toes into the waters of poetry and want some initial feedback? Then a Mini-Portfolio Review would be just right for you. I’ll review up to a 20- page portfolio of your work (with no more than one poem or portion of a poem per page). Then we’ll set up a 30 to 60-minute zoom session to verbally discuss your poems overall, a direction for your work, and whatever else may come to mind.
Fee: [TBD]
Book Project Review
Are you a well-seasoned poet who wants feedback on a full-length manuscript? After an initial assessment of a writing sample and upon acceptance, together we will develop a format, schedule, and timeline to review and polish of your manuscript. As well as discuss some strategies for publishing your collection. Fee will be based on the scope of work involved.
Fee: [TBD]