When it comes to punctuating poems, opinions vary widely. Some poets are as careful and correct as T.S. Eliot, while others, like W.S. Merwin, have gotten rid of punctuation altogether. In this workshop we will discuss what traditional punctuation can achieve and whether syntax and line breaks can be used in its place. We will explore in depth the role played by the period and the comma, and we’ll take a look at some of the more unusual punctuation marks that poets have invented to suit their own purposes. By looking closely at a few poets who turned away from conventional punctuation, we will be able to judge for ourselves whether and how to punctuate our own poems.
LIVE VIDEO CONFERENCE: This workshop will be held via our online video conferencing platform, Zoom. The dates and times will remain the same. You can view brief tutorials on using the platform here. Shortly before the start date participants will recieve an email with login info. Please check your spam if you don’t see it.
