Chevron Left
Back to Sharpened Visions: A Poetry Workshop

Learner Reviews & Feedback for Sharpened Visions: A Poetry Workshop by California Institute of the Arts

4.8
stars
1,880 ratings

About the Course

Why just write poems when you can write better ones? This course is built on the notion that the most exciting writing begins after the first draft. It is specifically for folks who believe that writing poems just to express oneself is like using the Internet just for email. After all, poetry can change the way you and your readers think of the world and its inhabitants; it can break new ground for language; turn a blank sheet of paper into a teeming concert of voices and music. Though any of us may have the potential to make that happen, having an understanding of how several tools of poetic composition can be used (and audaciously “mis-used”) gives you more ways to try (and if we do this right, we might surprise ourselves most of all). We'll cover key poetic terms and devices by studying poems by a handful of modern and contemporary poets and then get a chance to try our own hand at writing new poem drafts from a select number of prompts. Throughout the course you will have the opportunity to workshop your poem drafts and get feedback on your work, working towards a more polished poem....

Top reviews

CN

May 22, 2024

Very personable instructor with quality content and a workshop system that works well even if you never get to actually meet your fellow poets. I was very impressed and got a lot out of this course.

CD

Jun 24, 2025

Excellent material taught in an accessible way. Wonderful to share my own work and receive feedback and learn the critical thinking skills to give useful feedback also to others. Great stuff

Filter by:

551 - 575 of 774 Reviews for Sharpened Visions: A Poetry Workshop

By Kutadi S S

•

Apr 26, 2021

It's an excellent course for anyone who wants to learn Poetry.

By Jason S

•

Nov 26, 2018

Engaging on a new level. I like the workshop format on a MOOC.

By HongDing Z

•

Jul 18, 2018

The revision and the poem analysis by Doug was truly enjoyable

By Rasha S

•

Aug 27, 2015

Very informative and at the same time entertaining. Thank you.

By Donna R

•

Oct 5, 2020

This was great information. I enjoyed the course a whole lot.

By Heather P

•

Mar 13, 2017

Fun, fresh and full of really great instruction and examples.

By Winnie L

•

Jan 17, 2018

Doug makes a somewhat boring topic very lively and enjoyable

By Jack A

•

Sep 5, 2015

This was a great introduction the English poetry. Thank you.

By Jim D

•

Feb 23, 2024

Very informative. Casual classes. Good class worth my time

By Mark D

•

Jul 1, 2020

Great instruction on how to get the most of your poetry.

By Waby

•

Feb 6, 2016

A great course. Not only informative but introspective.

By Ester

•

Sep 30, 2015

thank you Dough for sharpening and making change sight!

By Vabis E D

•

Sep 26, 2015

One of the most enjoyable Course.

Brilliantly engaging.

By Jasroop B

•

Nov 22, 2018

It's a great course for learning about poetry in depth

By Melissa S

•

Jul 18, 2023

Excellent course. Entertaining and excellent prompts.

By H G

•

Dec 14, 2015

Wrote my best poem yet, on a homework in this course!

By Deleted A

•

Apr 16, 2016

wonderful teacher, its funny at the same time smart.

By Prince O A

•

Oct 30, 2025

thanks a lot for the insights. i really enjoyed it.

By Sarnish K

•

Apr 27, 2022

The expressions are hilarious and a great course!!!

By Muli A

•

Oct 11, 2020

Great course to take

Delivery was engaging and clear

By Katherine Y

•

Aug 29, 2015

How fun and easy! I love it on a Saturday. Thanks!

By Jose M

•

Jun 22, 2020

Very enriching and meaningful learning experience.

By Rachita C

•

Aug 1, 2017

One of the best courses I've ever taken on poetry!

By Ron L

•

Jul 9, 2021

VERY USEFUL, MIND-STRETCHING AND ENJOYABLE COURSE