
In this short introduction I give an outline of the course, as well as the one rule:
Always hand write your poetry first.
So you'll need a pencil and a notepad.
Also, make sure you register on the forum - see the links.
Learn to count syllables and use them to write a "Western Haiku" - a short poem derived from a traditional Japanese form.
This lesson deals with rhythm, through an exploration of the Blues, a famous hymn, and some lines by Elizabethan playwright Christopher Marlowe.
You can also listen (links below) to me speaking the lines from the songs accompanied by me playing a snare drum, me playing a guitar and me playing a harmonica. (Audio only for the time being).
Put all the lessons together and create a Limerick. In fact, create lots of Limericks.
I use poetry to teach people better communication. It's the ultimate workout for your linguistic, presentational and public-speaking muscles.
Poetry can help you in your chosen career - whatever it might be. Poetry can even help you to land your dream job!
I'm in the process of developing a much deeper, longer course (for people who want to become master communicators), I've created this short, simple course to enable anyone who is curious to dip their toe in the poetical waters.
In this course, my challenge is to teach you enough that you will be able to write a simple poem, using rhyme and rhythm, even if you've never written (or even read) a poem in your life?
Your challenge is to learn, practice, and produce.
I've set up dedicated forums to enable students to share all their attempts, and completed poems, with me and each other. So enrol, and discover what poetry can do for you.
Please note: As of 2020, the forum for posting and discussing your poetry is no longer available due to lack of demand for this feature. Please let me know if you would like to be able to share your poems.