Generative Poetry Workshop with Rick Barot

On April 21st Rick Barot, Director of MFA and Associate Professor of English at Pacific Lutheran University, led a generative poetry workshop for Washington College students, faculty, and friends. The session began with a land recognition statement. Professor Barot led with a quote from Janet Malcohm saying, “Autobiography is the art of choosing what you want the world to know about you,” but he said to switch “autobiography” with “poetry.” Next, we examined the difference between structure and form in “The Potato Plant” by Jodi Hollander.  Students were able to discuss their opinions and interpretations of the poem. Next, the Professor and the audience discussed “Andy and Jerry and Joe” by Kenneth Fearing and “Ghazal” by Emily Moore. At the conclusion of the workshop, Professor Barot shared the link to his book and his website: https://www.theivybookshop.com/search/site/rick%2520barot and https://www.rickbarot.com