An introduction to poetry: Robert Lowell and Stevie Smith

What is the course about?

Come and join an introduction and exploration of the poetry of Robert Lowell and Stevie Smith. We will read, discuss and enjoy a selection of their poetry and consider how the poets shape our responses.

What will we cover?

We will read, discuss and enjoy a selection of poetry by Robert Lowell and Stevie Smith, two major 20th century poets who developed new ways of writing about the emotional stresses they experienced. We will explore the ways these poets shape our response through imagery, structure, form, rhyme, rhythm and tone.

We will look at how Lowell developed from tightly-rhymed heavily rhythmic poems to a looser, more conversational style in which he could express his emotional turmoil more directly, creating the ‘confessional’ style of poetry. And we will look at how Stevie Smith created a zany offbeat style of poetry, often illustrated with Edward Lear-like drawings, but sometimes expressing strong underlying feeling as in Not waving but drowning.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Understand the use of metaphor / simile/ alliteration in poetry.
- Discuss the role of rhyme and rhythm in poetry.
- Read and discuss poetry with greater confidence.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The level of the course is introductory. No previous knowledge or experience of literature is necessary. However,
you will ideally have an enthusiasm for reading and discussing poems, and for listening to the responses of other students.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Tutor explanation and group discussion. You will be sent the poems by email several days before the course so you can decide if you would like to read one to the class, but this is not mandatory. Beyond this there is no preparatory work.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

The tutor will provide copies of the poems at the beginning of the session. You may find it useful to bring a notebook and pen.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Look at other poetry courses on our website at www.citylit.ac.uk under History, Culture and Writing/Literature/Poetry.