Class

The Poetics of Craquelure: On Hybrid Forms

Few of us today could say that our lives have not been shaped by hybridity, and the same might be said of poetic form. This three-hour generative class explores contemporary hybrid forms such as the ghazal-ode, burning haibun, and other invented structures that adapt and transform inherited traditions. Through close reading and writing exercises, we will consider how poets reshape classical forms to create new architectures reflecting our contemporary experience.

Through close reading, discussion, and generative writing exercises, students will explore both the underlying logic of inherited forms and the creative possibilities opened through the merging of forms. We will look at contemporary poets and invented forms including the duplex, the burning haibun, and hybrid ghazal and sonnet variations, potentially engaging with work by poets such as Samyak Shertok, torrin a. greathouse, Zeina Hashem Beck, Winniebell Xinyu Zong, and others.

Designed for poets of all levels interested in hybridity and form, the class encourages students to begin imagining and constructing their own invented poetic structures. By the end of the session, students will leave with new draft material, familiarity with contemporary hybrid forms, and approaches they can apply to their own work. Students need only bring curiosity and attention.

Instructions for Accessing This Online Class

In order to access live class meetings, you must have the Zoom application downloaded to your computer. You will also need a WiFi/Internet connection throughout the duration of your scheduled meeting and a computer with audio and video capability. The information to join your Zoom classroom will be provided in your confirmation email upon registration. Please check spam folders if you do not see this email upon registration. For more information on how to use Zoom, please see our training manual here.

Some classes use a supplemental Google Classroom page. Should your teaching artist use Google Classroom, you will be invited to join the classroom via email at least 24 hours in advance of your class (check spam folders if you are not seeing this invitation). Please note that Google Classroom requires a Gmail address to access the Classroom. If you do not have a Gmail account, the email invitation will be sent to the email address we have on file and will prompt you to create a free account or enter an existing account to join the classroom. If we are unable to send an email invitation to your non-gmail account, you will be contacted by a staff member to provide a Gmail address. If you do not have a Gmail account, you can create a free account here. Should you have concerns about this, please contact a Loft staff member at [email protected] or 612-379-8999. For more information on how to use Google Classroom, please see our training manual here.