Poetry for the People classes -- Levels 1 and 2: Registration open for May 2010

"Sage was able to respond to each poem (and poet) in a uniquely sensitive way, meeting the material (and its creator) exactly where it is. In other words, her responses show what living as a poet is all about. What a gift this is." -- Amanda H.

Poetry for the People Level 1

May 5 - June 16, 2010

Six classes in six weeks--taught by email

Have you always wanted to write a poem but didn't know how to begin? Maybe you're already writing poetry and want to connect with your muse more often, or brush up on your poetic prowess? Poetry for the People takes poetry off of its academic pedestal, making it accessible to and enjoyable for everyone.

In this six-week class, weekly lessons will include a mix of inspiration, craft tips, exercises and publication ideas. You'll be inspired (but not required) to write a poem a day.

Student assignments include a weekly poem and check-in, both of which are shared with the other class members. The instructor offers personal attention throughout the six weeks by answering questions for the entire class, just like a traditional, “live” class. Detailed reviews of your poems-in-progress are included every week: you choose one of your pieces for instructor critique each time.

"Instructor Rating: 10. I know that the scale was from one to five--but Sage is that good. The written materials were superb and Sage was extraordinarily supportive." -- Sue E.

Duration:

Six lessons with six assignments completed in six weeks

Prerequisites:

None. This class is for people at any level of poetry writing experience. You must be able to receive and create Microsoft Word documents to participate. The instructor will send a personal introduction request form after your registration is confirmed and a class evaluation when the class is complete.

Class Materials:

The instructor provides class materials via e-mail in the form of Microsoft Word documents on start date of class, so students must be able to read and create MSW docs to participate. Students will provide a jpeg photo/headshot and a one-paragraph introduction the week prior to the class start date. It's a voluntary but fun way to “meet” your classmates!

"I was thrilled, elated, exalted and grateful to have my poem, 'Lucy loses a limb' accepted for publication — and twice in the same day! Lucy was written as a point-of-view assignment in your class. Thank you, Sage, for your class and your instruction!" -- Drew M.

Cost: $250.00

Contact Sage with questions: sage at sagesaidso dot com.

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"I know it isn't easy to teach--and I suspect that it's pretty difficult to teach poetry, in particular. Sage Cohen just makes it look easy! She's knowledgeable, approachable, and has an uncommonly useful way of commenting on the poems her students submit." -- Erika D.

Poetry for the People Level 2

May 3 - June 14, 2010

Six classes in six weeks--taught by email

Are you a practicing poet? Ready to hone your poetic voice and refine your craft? Interested in creating a more sustainable rhythm for your writing and publishing adventures? Want to have more fun with your poetry -- and your life? Then Poetry for the People Level 2 is for you!

Weekly lessons will include a mix of inspiration, craft tips, exercises and publication ideas. You'll be inspired (but not required) to write a poem a day. Student assignments include a weekly poem and check-in, both of which are shared with the other class members. The instructor offers personal attention throughout the six weeks by answering questions for the entire class, just like a traditional, “live” class. Detailed reviews of your poems-in-progress are included every week: you choose one of your pieces for instructor critique each time.

Duration:

Six lessons with six assignments completed in six weeks

Prerequisites:

This class is for people who have taken Poetry for the People Level 1 or who are practicing poets seeking to hone their craft. You must be able to receive and create Microsoft Word documents to participate. The instructor will send a personal introduction request form after your registration is confirmed and a class evaluation when the class is complete.

Class Materials:

The instructor provides class materials via e-mail in the form of Microsoft Word documents on start date of class, so students must be able to read and create MSW docs to participate. Students will provide a jpeg photo/headshot and a one-paragraph introduction the week prior to the class start date. It's a voluntary but fun way to “meet” your classmates!

"I was skeptical that I could find any space on my manic to do list for poetry. But Sage helped me see all the poetry around me--just waiting to find its place on the page." -- Amie H.

Cost: $250.00

Contact Sage with questions: sage at sagesaidso dot com.

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About Sage Cohen:

Sage Cohen is the author of WRITING THE LIFE POETIC: An Invitation to Read and Write Poetry (Writer’s Digest Books, 2009), THE PRODUCTIVE WRITER: Tips & Tools for Writing More, Stressing Less and Creating Success (forthcoming from Writer's Digest Books in 2010), and the poetry collection LIKE THE HEART, THE WORLD.

Her poetry and essays appear in journals and anthologies including HOW TO ACHIEVE A HEAVEN ON EARTH (alongside thought leaders such as Barack Obama, Al Gore and Thomas L. Friedman), Poetry Flash, Cup of Comfort for Writers, The Oregonian, Oregon Literary Review, Greater Good and VoiceCatcher.

Sage has won first prize in the Ghost Road Press poetry contest, been nominated for a Pushcart Prize and awarded a Soapstone residency. She teaches and lectures at libraries, universities, and writing conferences as well as online. Sage holds an MA in creative writing from New York University and a BA from Brown University; she believes the greatest learning laboratory is life.