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Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.
Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
Do you want to learn how to write poetry? This supportive and engaging course will help you to find your feet. Practical writing exercises will teach you to experiment with a variety of styles and techniques, form and content will be explored through group discussion, and you will learn from examination and analysis of the work of published poets. A range of different topics will be explored each term.
The Tutor
Ali Lewis received an Eric Gregory Award in 2018, and his poems have appeared in magazines including the TLS, the New Statesman, and Poetry Review, as well as in Poetry London, where he is a former Associate Editor. He is the author of the pamphlet Hotel (Verve, 2020) and his debut collection, Absence, is forthcoming in February. He frequently collaborates with composers, and settings of his work been performed at Wigmore Hall and featured on BBC Radio Three and Radio France. He is completing a PhD at Durham University.
What will we cover?
- Practical writing excercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms
- Group discussions will illuminate particular issues related to craft, including rhythm, tone and structure
- Analysis of published poets will teach you how and why their work succeeds
- Constructive feedback will encourage you to continue to write and improve your work.
What will I achieve? By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Create strong images when writing a poem
- Apply lineation and rhyme in your poetry
- Identify metaphor and simile, and use these devices in your own work
- Use ekphrasis as a way into writing a poem
- Write using at least two specific forms, such as the sonnet and haiku
- Edit your poems
- Read and write with an increased understanding of the key elements of a poem.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This is an introductory course. A good level of spoken and written English is needed. Beginners are very welcome in this class. Complete beginners who are unsure about studying alongside poets with a little experience in the craft might want to try one of our gentle pace courses first.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Tutor-led discussion, small-group discussion, participating in writing exercises in-class, workshop readings, tutor feedback and class discussion. There will be an optional homework exercise set each week.
All writing courses at City Lit will involve an element of workshop. This means that students will produce work which will be discussed in an open and constructive environment with the tutor and other students. The college operates a policy of constructive criticism, and all feedback on another student’s work by the tutor and other students should be delivered in that spirit.
For classes longer than one day regular reading and writing exercises will be set for completion at home to set deadlines.
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?
Please bring a notebook and pen or pencil with you to class.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
City Lit has a range of poetry and creative writing courses on offer. After completing a term of 'Ways into poetry', you may wish to complete another term of the course with a different tutor to further develop your craft. Alternatively, you may wish to move on to our intermediate and advanced classes, including 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'.
All students are invited to join us at Late Lines, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to Between the Lines, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on Facebook and Twitter.
Cecilia Knapp is a poet and novelist and the Young People’s Laureate for London 2020/2021. She was shortlisted for the 2022 Forward prize for best single poem. She is the winner of the 2021 Ruth Rendell award and has been shortlisted for both the Rebecca Swift Women’s prize and the Outspoken poetry prize. Her debut poetry collection Peach Pig was published by Corsair in 2022 and was the Observer’s poetry book of the month for October. Her poems have appeared in The Financial Times, Granta, The White Review, Wasafiri, Popshot, Ambit, Magma and bath magg and anthologised. She curated the anthology Everything is Going to be alright: Poems for When you Really Need Them, published by Trapeze in 2021. Her debut novel Little Boxes is published by The Borough Press (Harper Collins.) In 2023, Little Boxes was longlisted for The Authors Club Best First Novel Award.
Megan BeechSee moreSee less
Dr Megan Beech is a literature scholar and performance poet. She was the winner of the Poetry Society’s SLAMbassadors national youth slam in 2011. She has performed at venues including the Royal Albert Hall, Parliament, the Southbank Centre, Glastonbury Festival and Cheltenham Literature Festival. Her debut collection 'When I Grow Up I Want to be Mary Beard' was published in 2013, and her latest book 'You Sad Feminist' was released in 2017. Her poetry has featured on the Sky One's 'Russell Howard Hour' and the BBC iPlayer series ‘Women Who Spit'. She was featured in The Guardian lists of ‘inspiring young feminists in 2014’ and ‘Must Read Books of the Year 2014’ and Evening Standard's list of 'Ten 21st Century feminist icons'. She has recently finished a PhD at the University of Cambridge.
Suzannah V. EvansSee moreSee less
Dr. Suzannah V. Evans is a poet, researcher, and educator. Her debut full poetry collection is Under the Blue (Bloomsbury Poetry, September 2025). She is the author of Brightwork and Marine Objects / Some Language, and the editor of All Keyboards are Legitimate: Versions of Jules Laforgue (Guillemot Press). A chapter of her work appears in Carcanet’s anthology New Poetries VIII. Her poetry has been awarded the Ivan Juritz Prize for Creative Experiment and a Northern Writers’ Award, performed at international festivals, and broadcast on BBC Radio. She holds an AHRC-funded PhD in modern poetry from Durham University, and has taught literature and creative writing widely in higher and adult education. https://suzannahvevans.com/
Andrew WealeSee moreSee less
Andrew Weale is a poet and author of five picture books, including Nora: The Girl Who Ate and Ate and Ate, and the Red House Award winning Spooky Spooky House. He also lectures on picture book writing at Winchester University as part of the Children’s Writing MA, and mentors writers for the highly successful Golden Egg Academy.
Claire CollisonSee moreSee less
Writer and visual artist Claire Collison was awarded the Women Poets’ Prize, 2018. Her first novel was a finalist in the Dundee Book Prize, 2005. Her poetry appears in magazines and anthologies, and has been placed in Winchester, Resurgence, and Hippocrates prizes. She has worked as subeditor for MAKE, the magazine of Women’s Art, and Arts Editor for Disability Arts Magazine. Claire was the first MaxLiteracy writer at Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge, and designs engagement resources, including for the Government Art Collection, National Maritime Museum, and Photographers’ Gallery. She has led creative projects within hospitals and schools, and with refugees and asylum seekers, vulnerable adults, elders, and young children. Her recent cross-disciplinary project, Truth Is Beauty was performed in venues across the UK. She is a founder member of Poets for the Planet.
Toby CampionSee moreSee less
Toby Campion is an award winning poet and playwright. Winner of the Aesthetica Creative Writing Award 2024 and shortlisted for the Forward Prize for Best Single Poem 2024, Toby is a former UK National Poetry Slam winner and World Poetry Slam finalist. His debut short collection, Through your blood, was Highly Commended in the Forward Prizes 2018 and his poems have been published widely, most recently in The Rialto, bath magg, And Other Poems, Aesthetica and The London Magazine. Toby is the founder of the National Poetry Collectives Showcase and the Director of UniSlam. He teaches the London-based queer creative writing group, verse, and has taught for organisations including Roundhouse, Financial Times, National Trust and The Poetry Society.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
product
https://www.citylit.ac.uk/ways-into-poetry135944Ways into poetryhttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/w/a/ways-into-poetry-hw191-1024.jpg249249GBPInStock/Courses/Courses/Culture, history & humanities/Writing/Poetry/Courses/Top rated courses/Courses/vm/Writing Courses/Poetry Writing/Courses/vm/Writing Courses/Courses/Culture, history & humanities/Writing/'Ways into' courses/Courses/Writing/Courses/Writing/Poetry/Courses/Last available places22851590166220362018135451358113602174212285117712051653201813581Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class. <div data-content-type="html" data-appearance="default" data-element="main">Do you want to learn how to write poetry? This supportive and engaging course will help you to find your feet. Practical writing exercises will teach you to experiment with a variety of styles and techniques, form and content will be explored through group discussion, and you will learn from examination and analysis of the work of published poets. A range of different topics will be explored each term. <br />
<br />
This is a live online course. You will need:<br />
- Internet connection. The classes work best with Chrome.<br />
- A computer with microphone and camera is best (e.g. a PC/laptop/iMac/MacBook), or a tablet/iPad/smart phone/iPhone if you don't have a computer.<br />
- Earphones/headphones/speakers.<br />
We will contact you with joining instructions before your course starts.</div>334.81188346Ways into poetry249249https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/w/a/ways-into-poetry-hw191-1024_18.jpgInStockDaytimeThuKeeley StreetAvailable courses11 weeks or longerWeekday2025-09-25T00:00:00+00:00Beginners, Some experienceSep 2025WritingHW039249249Ways into poetry249125249Megan Beechways-into-poetry/hw039-2526Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.0000-Available|2025-09-25 00:00:00Do you want to learn how to write poetry? This supportive and engaging course will help you to find your feet. Practical writing exercises will teach you to experiment with a variety of styles and techniques, form and content will be explored through group discussion, and you will learn from examination and analysis of the work of published poets. A range of different topics will be explored each term.Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.- Practical writing excercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms<br />
- Group discussions will illuminate particular issues related to craft, including rhythm, tone and structure<br />
- Analysis of published poets will teach you how and why their work succeeds<br />
- Constructive feedback will encourage you to continue to write and improve your work.- Create strong images when writing a poem<br />
- Apply lineation and rhyme in your poetry<br />
- Identify metaphor and simile, and use these devices in your own work<br />
- Use ekphrasis as a way into writing a poem<br />
- Write using at least two specific forms, such as the sonnet and haiku<br />
- Edit your poems<br />
- Read and write with an increased understanding of the key elements of a poem.This is an introductory course. A good level of spoken and written English is needed. Beginners are very welcome in this class. Complete beginners who are unsure about studying alongside poets with a little experience in the craft might want to try one of our gentle pace courses first.Tutor-led discussion, small-group discussion, participating in writing exercises in-class, workshop readings, tutor feedback and class discussion. There will be an optional homework exercise set each week. <br />
<br />
All writing courses at City Lit will involve an element of workshop. This means that students will produce work which will be discussed in an open and constructive environment with the tutor and other students. The college operates a policy of constructive criticism, and all feedback on another student’s work by the tutor and other students should be delivered in that spirit. <br />
<br />
For classes longer than one day regular reading and writing exercises will be set for completion at home to set deadlines.<br />
<br />
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 <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/expectations-for-participating-in-writing-courses" target="_blank">expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit</a>.Please bring a notebook and pen or pencil with you to class.City Lit has a range of poetry and creative writing courses on offer. After completing a term of 'Ways into poetry', you may wish to complete another term of the course with a different tutor to further develop your craft. Alternatively, you may wish to move on to our intermediate and advanced classes, including 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'. <br />
<br />
All students are invited to join us at <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/latelines" target="_blank">Late Lines</a>, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/betweenthelines" target="_blank">Between the Lines</a>, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/citylitcreativewriting" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href=" https://www.twitter.com/citylitwriting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.virtual1188355Ways into poetry249249https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/w/a/ways-into-poetry-hw191-1024_22.jpgInStockDaytimeThuKeeley StreetAvailable courses11 weeks or longerWeekday2026-01-15T00:00:00+00:00Beginners, Some experienceJan 2026WritingHW040249249Ways into poetry249125249Suzannah V. Evansways-into-poetry/hw040-2526Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.0000-Available|2026-01-15 00:00:00Do you want to learn how to write poetry? This supportive and engaging course will help you to find your feet. Practical writing exercises will teach you to experiment with a variety of styles and techniques, form and content will be explored through group discussion, and you will learn from examination and analysis of the work of published poets. A range of different topics will be explored each term.Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.- Practical writing excercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms.<br />
- Group discussions will illuminate particular issues related to craft, including rhythm, tone and structure.<br />
- Analysis of published poets will teach you how and why their work succeeds.<br />
- Constructive feedback will encourage you to continue to write and improve your work.- Create strong images when writing a poem<br />
- Apply lineation and rhyme in your poetry<br />
- Identify metaphor and simile, and use these devices in your own work<br />
- Use ekphrasis as a way into writing a poem<br />
- Write using at least two specific forms, such as the sonnet and haiku<br />
- Edit your poems<br />
- Read and write with an increased understanding of the key elements of a poem.This is an introductory course. A good level of spoken and written English is needed. Beginners are very welcome in this class. Complete beginners who are unsure about studying alongside poets with a little experience in the craft might want to try one of our gentle pace courses first.Tutor-led discussion, small-group discussion, participating in writing exercises in-class, workshop readings, tutor feedback and class discussion. There will be an optional homework exercise set each week. <br />
<br />
All writing courses at City Lit will involve an element of workshop. This means that students will produce work which will be discussed in an open and constructive environment with the tutor and other students. The college operates a policy of constructive criticism, and all feedback on another student’s work by the tutor and other students should be delivered in that spirit. <br />
<br />
For classes longer than one day regular reading and writing exercises will be set for completion at home to set deadlines.<br />
<br />
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 <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/expectations-for-participating-in-writing-courses" target="_blank">expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit</a>.Please bring a notebook and pen or pencil with you to class.City Lit has a range of poetry and creative writing courses on offer. After completing a term of 'Ways into poetry', you may wish to complete another term of the course with a different tutor to further develop your craft. Alternatively, you may wish to move on to our intermediate and advanced classes, including 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'. <br />
<br />
All students are invited to join us at <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/latelines" target="_blank">Late Lines</a>, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/betweenthelines" target="_blank">Between the Lines</a>, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/citylitcreativewriting" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href=" https://www.twitter.com/citylitwriting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.virtual1188415Ways into poetry249249https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/w/a/ways-into-poetry-hw191-1024_21.jpgInStockEveningWedOnlineAvailable courses11 weeks or longerWeekday2026-01-14T00:00:00+00:00Beginners, Some experienceJan 2026WritingHW091249249Ways into poetry249125249Andrew Wealeways-into-poetry/hw091-2526Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.0000-Available|2026-01-14 00:00:00Do you want to learn how to write poetry? This supportive and engaging course will help you to find your feet. Practical writing exercises will teach you to experiment with a variety of styles and techniques, form and content will be explored through group discussion, and you will learn from examination and analysis of the work of published poets. A range of different topics will be explored each term.Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.- Practical writing excercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms.<br />
- Group discussions will illuminate particular issues related to craft, including rhythm, tone and structure.<br />
- Analysis of published poets will teach you how and why their work succeeds.<br />
- Constructive feedback will encourage you to continue to write and improve your work.- Create strong images when writing a poem<br />
- Apply lineation and rhyme in your poetry<br />
- Identify metaphor and simile, and use these devices in your own work<br />
- Use ekphrasis as a way into writing a poem<br />
- Write using at least two specific forms, such as the sonnet and haiku<br />
- Edit your poems<br />
- Read and write with an increased understanding of the key elements of a poem.This is an introductory course. A good level of spoken and written English is needed. Beginners are very welcome in this class. Complete beginners who are unsure about studying alongside poets with a little experience in the craft might want to try one of our gentle pace courses first.Tutor-led discussion, small-group discussion, participating in writing exercises in-class, workshop readings, tutor feedback and class discussion. There will be an optional homework exercise set each week. <br />
<br />
All writing courses at City Lit will involve an element of workshop. This means that students will produce work which will be discussed in an open and constructive environment with the tutor and other students. The college operates a policy of constructive criticism, and all feedback on another student’s work by the tutor and other students should be delivered in that spirit. <br />
<br />
For classes longer than one day regular reading and writing exercises will be set for completion at home to set deadlines.<br />
<br />
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 <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/expectations-for-participating-in-writing-courses" target="_blank">expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit</a>.Please bring a notebook and pen or pencil with you to class.City Lit has a range of poetry and creative writing courses on offer. After completing a term of 'Ways into poetry', you may wish to complete another term of the course with a different tutor to further develop your craft. Alternatively, you may wish to move on to our intermediate and advanced classes, including 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'. <br />
<br />
All students are invited to join us at <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/latelines" target="_blank">Late Lines</a>, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/betweenthelines" target="_blank">Between the Lines</a>, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/citylitcreativewriting" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href=" https://www.twitter.com/citylitwriting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.virtual1188475Ways into poetry249249https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/w/a/ways-into-poetry-hw191-1024_17.jpgInStockEveningMonKeeley StreetAvailable courses11 weeks or longerWeekday2025-09-15T00:00:00+00:00Beginners, Some experienceSep 2025WritingHW189249249Ways into poetry249125249Cecilia Knappways-into-poetry/hw189-2526Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.0000-Available|2025-09-15 00:00:00Do you want to learn how to write poetry? This supportive and engaging course will help you to find your feet. Practical writing exercises will teach you to experiment with a variety of styles and techniques, form and content will be explored through group discussion, and you will learn from examination and analysis of the work of published poets. A range of different topics will be explored each term.<br />
<br />
<b>The Tutor</b><br />
Ali Lewis received an Eric Gregory Award in 2018, and his poems have appeared in magazines including the TLS, the New Statesman, and Poetry Review, as well as in Poetry London, where he is a former Associate Editor. He is the author of the pamphlet Hotel (Verve, 2020) and his debut collection, Absence, is forthcoming in February. He frequently collaborates with composers, and settings of his work been performed at Wigmore Hall and featured on BBC Radio Three and Radio France. He is completing a PhD at Durham University.Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.- Practical writing excercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms<br />
- Group discussions will illuminate particular issues related to craft, including rhythm, tone and structure<br />
- Analysis of published poets will teach you how and why their work succeeds<br />
- Constructive feedback will encourage you to continue to write and improve your work.- Create strong images when writing a poem<br />
- Apply lineation and rhyme in your poetry<br />
- Identify metaphor and simile, and use these devices in your own work<br />
- Use ekphrasis as a way into writing a poem<br />
- Write using at least two specific forms, such as the sonnet and haiku<br />
- Edit your poems<br />
- Read and write with an increased understanding of the key elements of a poem.This is an introductory course. A good level of spoken and written English is needed. Beginners are very welcome in this class. Complete beginners who are unsure about studying alongside poets with a little experience in the craft might want to try one of our gentle pace courses first.Tutor-led discussion, small-group discussion, participating in writing exercises in-class, workshop readings, tutor feedback and class discussion. There will be an optional homework exercise set each week. <br />
<br />
All writing courses at City Lit will involve an element of workshop. This means that students will produce work which will be discussed in an open and constructive environment with the tutor and other students. The college operates a policy of constructive criticism, and all feedback on another student’s work by the tutor and other students should be delivered in that spirit. <br />
<br />
For classes longer than one day regular reading and writing exercises will be set for completion at home to set deadlines.<br />
<br />
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 <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/expectations-for-participating-in-writing-courses" target="_blank">expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit</a>.Please bring a notebook and pen or pencil with you to class.City Lit has a range of poetry and creative writing courses on offer. After completing a term of 'Ways into poetry', you may wish to complete another term of the course with a different tutor to further develop your craft. Alternatively, you may wish to move on to our intermediate and advanced classes, including 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'. <br />
<br />
All students are invited to join us at <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/latelines" target="_blank">Late Lines</a>, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/betweenthelines" target="_blank">Between the Lines</a>, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/citylitcreativewriting" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href=" https://www.twitter.com/citylitwriting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.virtual1188487Ways into poetry249249https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/w/a/ways-into-poetry-hw191-1024_20.jpgInStockEveningThuKeeley StreetAvailable courses11 weeks or longerWeekday2026-01-15T00:00:00+00:00Beginners, Some experienceJan 2026WritingHW190249249Ways into poetry249125249Claire Collisonways-into-poetry/hw190-2526Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.0000-Available|2026-01-15 00:00:00Do you want to learn how to write poetry? This supportive and engaging course will help you to find your feet. Practical writing exercises will teach you to experiment with a variety of styles and techniques, form and content will be explored through group discussion, and you will learn from examination and analysis of the work of published poets. A range of different topics will be explored each term.Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.- Practical writing excercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms.<br />
- Group discussions will illuminate particular issues related to craft, including rhythm, tone and structure.<br />
- Analysis of published poets will teach you how and why their work succeeds.<br />
- Constructive feedback will encourage you to continue to write and improve your work.- Create strong images when writing a poem<br />
- Apply lineation and rhyme in your poetry<br />
- Identify metaphor and simile, and use these devices in your own work<br />
- Use ekphrasis as a way into writing a poem<br />
- Write using at least two specific forms, such as the sonnet and haiku<br />
- Edit your poems<br />
- Read and write with an increased understanding of the key elements of a poem.This is an introductory course. A good level of spoken and written English is needed. Beginners are very welcome in this class. Complete beginners who are unsure about studying alongside poets with a little experience in the craft might want to try one of our gentle pace courses first.Tutor-led discussion, small-group discussion, participating in writing exercises in-class, workshop readings, tutor feedback and class discussion. There will be an optional homework exercise set each week. <br />
<br />
All writing courses at City Lit will involve an element of workshop. This means that students will produce work which will be discussed in an open and constructive environment with the tutor and other students. The college operates a policy of constructive criticism, and all feedback on another student’s work by the tutor and other students should be delivered in that spirit. <br />
<br />
For classes longer than one day regular reading and writing exercises will be set for completion at home to set deadlines.<br />
<br />
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 <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/expectations-for-participating-in-writing-courses" target="_blank">expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit</a>.Please bring a notebook and pen or pencil with you to class.City Lit has a range of poetry and creative writing courses on offer. After completing a term of 'Ways into poetry', you may wish to complete another term of the course with a different tutor to further develop your craft. Alternatively, you may wish to move on to our intermediate and advanced classes, including 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'. <br />
<br />
All students are invited to join us at <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/latelines" target="_blank">Late Lines</a>, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/betweenthelines" target="_blank">Between the Lines</a>, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/citylitcreativewriting" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href=" https://www.twitter.com/citylitwriting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.virtual1440358Ways into Poetry2929https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/w/a/ways-into-poetry-hw191-1024_19.jpgInStockDaytimeSatOnlineAvailable coursesOne-off onlyWeekend2025-10-04T00:00:00+00:00BeginnersOct 2025Culture, history & humanitiesHLT3682929Ways into Poetry231929Suzannah V. Evansways-into-poetry/hlt368-2526Come and revel in the possibilities of expression and form offered by poems across time, guided by lively group discussion and tutor expertise.0000-Available|2025-10-04 00:00:00This online literature course provides a taster to poetry as a literary genre and mode of expression. We will think about what poetry is, how poetry has changed and developed over time, and how poets use language to communicate in heightened and memorable ways.Come and revel in the possibilities of expression and form offered by poems across time, guided by lively group discussion and tutor expertise.This course will consider a range of poetry from the last 400 years, although the emphasis will be on modern poetry. You will explore some of the most exciting and original poems in English and discuss what has made them last.- Understand the range of techniques a poet might use to create meaning<br />
- Discuss the role of rhyme and rhythm in poetry<br />
- Read and discuss poetry with more confidence.This is an introductory course, and so no previous knowledge or experience of literature is necessary. However, you will ideally have an enthusiasm for reading and discussing poetry in all its shapes and forms.This session is run in a seminar style, with all students invited to read poems aloud and to take part in discussions led by the tutor. There will be a mix of tutor presentation, small group activities, and close reading and analysis.The tutor will supply in-class materials comprising the poems under discussion and any additional reading. There are no other costs. Please bring along a pen and paper or a notebook.The tutor will also be teaching HLT367 Making it Modern:a survey of 20th century poetry.<br />
Please look for other poetry courses at www.citylit.ac.uk/history, culture and writing/literature/poetry.virtual2539693Ways into poetry249249https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/w/a/ways-into-poetry-hw191-1024_88_1.jpgInStockEveningMonKeeley StreetAvailable courses11 weeks or longerWeekday2026-04-20T00:00:00+00:00Beginners, Some experienceApr 2026WritingHW191249249Ways into poetry249125249Toby Campionways-into-poetry/hw191-2526Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.0000-Available|2026-04-20 00:00:00Do you want to learn how to write poetry? This supportive and engaging course will help you to find your feet. Practical writing exercises will teach you to experiment with a variety of styles and techniques, form and content will be explored through group discussion, and you will learn from examination and analysis of the work of published poets. A range of different topics will be explored each term.Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.- Practical writing excercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms.<br/>- Group discussions will illuminate particular issues related to craft, including rhythm, tone and structure.<br/>- Analysis of published poets will teach you how and why their work succeeds.<br/>- Constructive feedback will encourage you to continue to write and improve your work.- Create strong images when writing a poem<br/>- Apply lineation and rhyme in your poetry<br/>- Identify metaphor and simile, and use these devices in your own work<br/>- Use ekphrasis as a way into writing a poem<br/>- Write using at least two specific forms, such as the sonnet and haiku<br/>- Edit your poems<br/>- Read and write with an increased understanding of the key elements of a poem.This is an introductory course. A good level of spoken and written English is needed. Beginners are very welcome in this class. Complete beginners who are unsure about studying alongside poets with a little experience in the craft might want to try one of our gentle pace courses first.Tutor-led discussion, small-group discussion, participating in writing exercises in-class, workshop readings, tutor feedback and class discussion. There will be an optional homework exercise set each week. <br />
<br />
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 <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/expectations-for-participating-in-writing-courses" target="_blank">expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit</a>.Please bring a notebook and pen or pencil with you to class.After completing a term of 'Ways into poetry', you may wish to complete another term of the course with a different tutor to further develop your craft. Alternatively, you may wish to move on to our intermediate and advanced classes, including 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'. <br/><br/>All students are invited to join us at <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/latelines">Late Lines</a>, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/betweenthelines">Between the Lines</a>, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/citylitcreativewriting">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.twitter.com/citylitwriting">Twitter</a>.virtual2539738Ways into poetry249249https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/w/a/ways-into-poetry-hw191-1024_88_2.jpgInStockEveningWedOnlineAvailable courses11 weeks or longerWeekday2026-04-22T00:00:00+00:00Beginners, Some experienceApr 2026WritingHW103249249Ways into poetry249125249Andrew Wealeways-into-poetry/hw103-2526Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.0000-Available|2026-04-22 00:00:00Do you want to learn how to write poetry? This supportive and engaging course will help you to find your feet. Practical writing exercises will teach you to experiment with a variety of styles and techniques, form and content will be explored through group discussion, and you will learn from examination and analysis of the work of published poets. A range of different topics will be explored each term.Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.- Practical writing excercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms.<br/>- Group discussions will illuminate particular issues related to craft, including rhythm, tone and structure.<br/>- Analysis of published poets will teach you how and why their work succeeds.<br/>- Constructive feedback will encourage you to continue to write and improve your work.- Create strong images when writing a poem<br/>- Apply lineation and rhyme in your poetry<br/>- Identify metaphor and simile, and use these devices in your own work<br/>- Use ekphrasis as a way into writing a poem<br/>- Write using at least two specific forms, such as the sonnet and haiku<br/>- Edit your poems<br/>- Read and write with an increased understanding of the key elements of a poem.This is an introductory course. A good level of spoken and written English is needed. Beginners are very welcome in this class. Complete beginners who are unsure about studying alongside poets with a little experience in the craft might want to try one of our gentle pace courses first.Tutor-led discussion, small-group discussion, participating in writing exercises in-class, workshop readings, tutor feedback and class discussion. There will be an optional homework exercise set each week. <br />
<br />
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 <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/expectations-for-participating-in-writing-courses" target="_blank">expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit</a>.Please bring a notebook and pen or pencil with you to class.City Lit has a range of poetry and creative writing courses on offer. After completing a term of 'Ways into poetry', you may wish to complete another term of the course with a different tutor to further develop your craft. Alternatively, you may wish to move on to our intermediate and advanced classes, including 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'. <br/><br/>All students are invited to join us at <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/latelines">Late Lines</a>, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/betweenthelines">Between the Lines</a>, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/citylitcreativewriting">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.twitter.com/citylitwriting">Twitter</a>.virtual249,23249,29125,19HW039,HW040,HW091,HW189,HW190,HLT368,HW191,HW103NONEThu,Wed,Mon,Sat15/09/25 - 24/11/2517:30 - 19:3017:3019:3011 sessions (over 11 weeks)1111 weeks or longer,One-off onlyWeekday,WeekendKSKeeley Street,OnlineMegan Beech,Suzannah V. Evans,Andrew Weale,Cecilia Knapp,Claire Collison,Toby CampionBeginners, Some experience,BeginnersAvailable courses2025-09-25T00:00:00+00:00,2026-01-15T00:00:00+00:00,2026-01-14T00:00:00+00:00,2025-09-15T00:00:00+00:00,2025-10-04T00:00:00+00:00,2026-04-20T00:00:00+00:00,2026-04-22T00:00:00+00:00Daytime,EveningSep 2025,Jan 2026,Oct 2025,Apr 2026Writing,Culture, history & humanities29249,29Ways into poetry,Ways into Poetryways-into-poetry/hw039-2526,ways-into-poetry/hw040-2526,ways-into-poetry/hw091-2526,ways-into-poetry/hw189-2526,ways-into-poetry/hw190-2526,ways-into-poetry/hlt368-2526,ways-into-poetry/hw191-2526,ways-into-poetry/hw103-2526Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.,Come and revel in the possibilities of expression and form offered by poems across time, guided by lively group discussion and tutor expertise.0000-Available|2025-09-15 00:00:00Do you want to learn how to write poetry? This supportive and engaging course will help you to find your feet. Practical writing exercises will teach you to experiment with a variety of styles and techniques, form and content will be explored through group discussion, and you will learn from examination and analysis of the work of published poets. A range of different topics will be explored each term.,Do you want to learn how to write poetry? This supportive and engaging course will help you to find your feet. Practical writing exercises will teach you to experiment with a variety of styles and techniques, form and content will be explored through group discussion, and you will learn from examination and analysis of the work of published poets. A range of different topics will be explored each term.<br />
<br />
<b>The Tutor</b><br />
Ali Lewis received an Eric Gregory Award in 2018, and his poems have appeared in magazines including the TLS, the New Statesman, and Poetry Review, as well as in Poetry London, where he is a former Associate Editor. He is the author of the pamphlet Hotel (Verve, 2020) and his debut collection, Absence, is forthcoming in February. He frequently collaborates with composers, and settings of his work been performed at Wigmore Hall and featured on BBC Radio Three and Radio France. He is completing a PhD at Durham University.,This online literature course provides a taster to poetry as a literary genre and mode of expression. We will think about what poetry is, how poetry has changed and developed over time, and how poets use language to communicate in heightened and memorable ways.Relatively new to writing poetry? This inspiring course offers an opportunity to experiment with language and a variety of poetic devices alongside fellow emerging poets. Discover the key elements of a poem in a friendly and interactive class.,Come and revel in the possibilities of expression and form offered by poems across time, guided by lively group discussion and tutor expertise.- Practical writing excercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms<br />
- Group discussions will illuminate particular issues related to craft, including rhythm, tone and structure<br />
- Analysis of published poets will teach you how and why their work succeeds<br />
- Constructive feedback will encourage you to continue to write and improve your work.,- Practical writing excercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms.<br />
- Group discussions will illuminate particular issues related to craft, including rhythm, tone and structure.<br />
- Analysis of published poets will teach you how and why their work succeeds.<br />
- Constructive feedback will encourage you to continue to write and improve your work.,This course will consider a range of poetry from the last 400 years, although the emphasis will be on modern poetry. You will explore some of the most exciting and original poems in English and discuss what has made them last.,- Practical writing excercises will teach you to write in a variety of styles and forms.<br/>- Group discussions will illuminate particular issues related to craft, including rhythm, tone and structure.<br/>- Analysis of published poets will teach you how and why their work succeeds.<br/>- Constructive feedback will encourage you to continue to write and improve your work.- Create strong images when writing a poem<br />
- Apply lineation and rhyme in your poetry<br />
- Identify metaphor and simile, and use these devices in your own work<br />
- Use ekphrasis as a way into writing a poem<br />
- Write using at least two specific forms, such as the sonnet and haiku<br />
- Edit your poems<br />
- Read and write with an increased understanding of the key elements of a poem.,- Understand the range of techniques a poet might use to create meaning<br />
- Discuss the role of rhyme and rhythm in poetry<br />
- Read and discuss poetry with more confidence.,- Create strong images when writing a poem<br/>- Apply lineation and rhyme in your poetry<br/>- Identify metaphor and simile, and use these devices in your own work<br/>- Use ekphrasis as a way into writing a poem<br/>- Write using at least two specific forms, such as the sonnet and haiku<br/>- Edit your poems<br/>- Read and write with an increased understanding of the key elements of a poem.This is an introductory course. A good level of spoken and written English is needed. Beginners are very welcome in this class. Complete beginners who are unsure about studying alongside poets with a little experience in the craft might want to try one of our gentle pace courses first.,This is an introductory course, and so no previous knowledge or experience of literature is necessary. However, you will ideally have an enthusiasm for reading and discussing poetry in all its shapes and forms.Tutor-led discussion, small-group discussion, participating in writing exercises in-class, workshop readings, tutor feedback and class discussion. There will be an optional homework exercise set each week. <br />
<br />
All writing courses at City Lit will involve an element of workshop. This means that students will produce work which will be discussed in an open and constructive environment with the tutor and other students. The college operates a policy of constructive criticism, and all feedback on another student’s work by the tutor and other students should be delivered in that spirit. <br />
<br />
For classes longer than one day regular reading and writing exercises will be set for completion at home to set deadlines.<br />
<br />
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 <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/expectations-for-participating-in-writing-courses" target="_blank">expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit</a>.,This session is run in a seminar style, with all students invited to read poems aloud and to take part in discussions led by the tutor. There will be a mix of tutor presentation, small group activities, and close reading and analysis.,Tutor-led discussion, small-group discussion, participating in writing exercises in-class, workshop readings, tutor feedback and class discussion. There will be an optional homework exercise set each week. <br />
<br />
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 <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/expectations-for-participating-in-writing-courses" target="_blank">expectations for participating in writing courses at City Lit</a>.Please bring a notebook and pen or pencil with you to class.,The tutor will supply in-class materials comprising the poems under discussion and any additional reading. There are no other costs. Please bring along a pen and paper or a notebook.City Lit has a range of poetry and creative writing courses on offer. After completing a term of 'Ways into poetry', you may wish to complete another term of the course with a different tutor to further develop your craft. Alternatively, you may wish to move on to our intermediate and advanced classes, including 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'. <br />
<br />
All students are invited to join us at <a href=" https://www.citylit.ac.uk/latelines" target="_blank">Late Lines</a>, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/betweenthelines" target="_blank">Between the Lines</a>, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/citylitcreativewriting" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href=" https://www.twitter.com/citylitwriting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.,The tutor will also be teaching HLT367 Making it Modern:a survey of 20th century poetry.<br />
Please look for other poetry courses at www.citylit.ac.uk/history, culture and writing/literature/poetry.,After completing a term of 'Ways into poetry', you may wish to complete another term of the course with a different tutor to further develop your craft. Alternatively, you may wish to move on to our intermediate and advanced classes, including 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'. <br/><br/>All students are invited to join us at <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/latelines">Late Lines</a>, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/betweenthelines">Between the Lines</a>, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/citylitcreativewriting">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.twitter.com/citylitwriting">Twitter</a>.,City Lit has a range of poetry and creative writing courses on offer. After completing a term of 'Ways into poetry', you may wish to complete another term of the course with a different tutor to further develop your craft. Alternatively, you may wish to move on to our intermediate and advanced classes, including 'Developing your poetry' and our 'Advanced poetry workshop'. <br/><br/>All students are invited to join us at <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/latelines">Late Lines</a>, our regular performance night for City Lit writers. Students are also encouraged to submit their work to <a href="https://www.citylit.ac.uk/betweenthelines">Between the Lines</a>, our annual anthology of creative writing. For the latest news, courses and events, stay in touch with the Department on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/citylitcreativewriting">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.twitter.com/citylitwriting">Twitter</a>.configurable
15901205Poetryhttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/history-culture-and-writing/writing/poetry1/2/285/1177/1205/1590/Courses/Culture, history & humanities/Writing/Poetry