Do the words "workshop" and "critique" intimidate you? Do you ever wonder what the next step is after you have written something you are proud of? This 6-week series offers a supportive introduction to the process of revising poems for writers of all levels.

Space is limited to 6. Advance registration is required (not a drop-in class). SLIDING SCALE AVAILABLE.

What We'll Do:

Bring your drafts to our All Levels Revision Circle, and we will practice giving and receiving feedback on creative writing no matter what stage it’s at. In this supportive, diverse and dynamic environment, we will practice respectful, inquisitive and constructive critique. The goal is to help each writer learn more about their own process, style and writing goals, and provide ideas for revision.

This is a creative and anti-racist critique space for the group dynamic to co-create together, while supporting each other's individual artistic journeys. We operate with the belief that there is no "right or wrong" way to write, and we honor each person's interests and voice. However, disrespectful or prejudiced behavior will not be tolerated.

Each week will involve a brief review/discussion on the following topics, then an equal amount of time will be given to each participant for workshopping. While this workshop runs 6-8 pm PST, there will be a nice 30 minute buffer period afterward for participants to socialize or ask questions if they wish because community is important!

Week 1: Five Reasons to Revise Your Drafts

Week 2: Imagery and the Human Imagination

Week 3: Figurative Language and ‘First Thought, Best Thought’

Week 4: The View from Here: Why POV Matters

Week 5: Form and Function

Week 6: Audience and Purpose

NOTE: While this workshop is geared towards poetry, short prose pieces are also welcomed.

What You’ll Get:

* An opportunity to share your writing in a supportive and diverse group

* Brief review/discussion of literary topics

* Revision techniques that could open up new approaches to your subject/style

* Strategies on how to offer and effective feedback

* Ideas for what to try next after receiving feedback

What You’ll Need:

* an original poem or piece of short prose you need help with (1-6 pieces)

* Zoom account

* Laptop, computer or phone with Zoom installed

* Pen and Paper (optional)

* Microsoft Word to download handout

How to Join:

1. This small-group workshop requires advance registration and is limited to 6 participants. Sorry, but no one will be admitted after the first session has started, except in unusual circumstances. This is to protect the integrity of the group and create the opportunity for deep literary relationships to develop.

2. You have options for payment. You can pay in full on Eventbrite up front, or email surprisetheline@gmail.com to pay via Venmo, to pay in installments via Venmo, or to send a check in the mail.

*We have one scholarship ticket available for a dedicated writer experiencing financial hardship. You must be able to anticipate attending all 6 sessions. Please email armiknado@gmail.com with a short explanation about your situation.

NOTE: If you'd like an additional 1-on-1 private consultation about your works in progress, you can add a 1 hour consultation with the teacher to your ticket (optional).

About the Teacher:

Born in Beirut, Lebanon, Arminé Iknadossian’s family fled to California when she was four years old to escape the civil war. After graduating from UCLA, Iknadossian earned an MFA in Creative Writing at Antioch University. The author of All That Wasted Fruit (Main Street Rag), Iknadossian’s work is included in Whale Road Review, Southern Florida Poetry Journal, KYSO Flash/MacQueen’s Quarterly and The American Journal of Poetry. She has received fellowships from Idyllwild Arts, The Los Angeles Writing Project and Otis College of Art and Design. She lives in Long Beach, California where she offers writing workshops and private manuscript consultations. Discover more at www.armineiknadossian.com.

Surprise the Line Diversity Statement:

We stand in solidarity with Black Lives Matter. We believe in empowering more writing on the page and encouraging more diverse voices in the world. We operate with an anti-racist, anti-ableist, anti-sexist, anti-classist, anti-xenophobic, nondenominational, pro-LGBTQIA, pro-environment and global worldview. We bring the values of integrity, generosity, compassion, critical thinking, and equity into every workshop.

Surprise the Line offers a variety of community writing workshops. For a full calendar of events, visit our website. To be notified of new events via email, click here.