Writing poetry through objects at Sir John Soane's Museum

What is the course about?

This course will consider the curiosities and surprises revealed by objects. Taking inspiration from the mass of objects in Sir John Soane’s Museum – including architectural models, sculptures, drawings, antiquities, and furniture – we will think through the resonance of objects, space, collecting, and memory in our own lives. What can objects tell us about people and places? How might attending to objects sensitise us to the physical world? Can writing about objects open up a sense of wonder and play?

Course image credit: John Stead.

What will we cover?

- Sensitively analyse and discuss a range of poetry focusing on objects and museums
- Write poems inspired by objects in Sir John Soane’s Museum and your own life
- Respond to the poetry of other participants in a constructive and respectful way.

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

- Confidently write poems about a range of objects
- Use a variety of different poetic forms and techniques to express your ideas
- Creatively and critically respond to representations of objects in contemporary poetry.

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

This is an intermediate course, suitable for those who have some experience in writing poetry, although any curious writer will be welcome to attend.

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

A mix of tutor instruction, pair work, interactive writing exercises, and discussion of published texts.

City Lit Writing endeavours to create a safe and welcoming space for all and we strongly support the use of content notes in our classes. This means that learners are encouraged to make their tutor and classmates aware in advance if any writing they wish to share contains material that may be deemed sensitive. If you are unsure about what might constitute sensitive content, please ask your tutor for further clarification and read our expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit.

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

There are no extra costs. Please bring a pen and a notebook or paper.

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

For a broader introduction to poetry, you might want to consider our 'Ways into poetry' course. For more experienced poets, we have 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'.