Reading Contemporary Poetry - January 2026

We’ll begin with What Work Is by Philip Levine, a Detroit-based poet whose writing honors the blue-collar life, and in the second session, move to Grace Notes, by Akron native, Rita Dove, who celebrates her heritage in the context of personal and American history. In the final session, we’ll discuss the rich, plain-spoken poems in Weather Central, by Nebraska-based poet, Ted Kooser, which explores the changing landscape of American farm life.

We hope to encourage reading the work of contemporary poets and foster discussion about ways to approach reading a book of poems by one author; to heighten comfort with and appreciation for poetry.

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Details: Reading Contemporary Poetry - January 2026 takes place Tuesdays January 13th, January 27th , and February 10th from 1-3 PM remotely through Zoom.

Genre: Poetry

Level: All experience levels welcome.

Format: Literary analysis and discussion with generative writing outside of class.

Location: This class takes place remotely online via Zoom.

Size: Limited to 15 participants (including scholarships).

Suggested Sequence: Follow this class with a craft and/or generative poetry workshop.

Scholarships: Two scholarship spots are available for this class for writers in Northeast Ohio. Apply by December 15. Click here to apply.

Cancellations & Refunds: Cancel at least 48 hours in advance of the first class meeting to receive a full refund. Email info@litcleveland.org.