Strange Magic: Writing Surreal Poems

In this generative class, poets Kelli Russell Agodon and Melissa Studdard help you step into the strange by guiding you through exercises designed to help you access the subconscious and surprise yourself on the page. We’ll explore techniques of surrealism—from startling juxtapositions to dream logic, associative leaps, and how to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. We’ll look at how surreal imagery can deepen emotional truth and add new dimensions to your poems. Participants will leave with at least three new poem drafts and fresh ways to invite wonder and beautifully bizarre into their writing. All poets welcome—no prior experience with surrealism needed.