Creative Class - Writing Poetry for Others

In this class, you’ll learn how to write for others through a process of active listening and stream of consciousness techniques.

Writing poetry for others can be a way to help them feel seen, heard, and valued. As a writer, it’s also an opportunity to take in unique perspectives, practice empathy, and be inspired.

The class will provide an introduction to poetic elements and techniques, individual practice with automatic (stream of consciousness) writing, tips for writing and revising quickly, sample questions to ask the recipient of a poem, and experience actively listening to and writing for those who are present.

At the end of the course, you’ll leave with new written material (our goal will be 2 finished poems), and greater trust in your ability to connect with others and encourage them through poetry.

As Artist in Residence at NewBo City Market, Missa became known for writing custom typewriter poems on request in about 20 minutes. She’s written over 200 poems this way since moving to Iowa in 2023. She is a Cofounder and Director of the Cedar Rapids-based nonprofit Farmhouse Art Collective, and publishes under their imprint First & Last Draft Press.

You can find her online @treeofliminalityatnewbo and at the Heart House, 1301 3rd Street SE.

If you are interested in taking this class, but find the ticket price to be a barrier, there are a limited number of spots available for volunteer assistants. Please contact Missa at [email protected] or by phone at 812-219-6119.