Syntax, which is how authors arrange words, phrases, and clauses into sentences, often takes a back seat to other elements of poetry, such as diction, imagery, and metaphor. But what happens when we put it in the driver’s seat of the composition or revision process? In this workshop, we will explore some of the syntactic moves poets make and discover how syntax can lead our poems through different avenues of meaning to unexpected places. Should they choose to, participants may bring a poem they are currently working on but are not required to do so.
About the instructor: José Edmundo Ocampo Reyes was born and raised in the Philippines. He is the author of Present Values (Backbone Press, 2018), winner of the Jean Pedrick Chapbook Prize. His poems have appeared in Bennington Review, Poetry Northwest, Memorious, and Scoundrel Time; and have been featured on The Slowdown. He is a recipient of the Robert H. Winner Memorial Award from the Poetry Society of America.
At The Poetry Society of New York, we believe that true creativity flourishes when all voices are heard, especially those that have been historically marginalized. Our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity isn't just a statement—it's woven into the fabric of everything we do. We aim to model this commitment for the entire arts industry, creating spaces where everyone, regardless of their background, feels seen, valued, and empowered.
PSNY's Free Verse Workshops are a direct response to the social inequities that too often silence marginalized voices. These free monthly workshops offer two distinct, identity-centered spaces: one for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and one for LGBTQ+ creatives. Here, participants can connect, create, and explore their unique identities through poetry, in environments designed specifically for them.
We recognize that these spaces are not just about creativity—they're about justice. By centering marginalized experiences, we’re working to dismantle the barriers that have long kept these voices on the margins. Each workshop concludes with a resource-sharing session, where participants can exchange literature, community events, and grants, building networks that extend beyond the workshop.
As part of our unwavering commitment to equity, all attendees receive a 50% discount for our Weekly Virtual Workshops—because access to the arts should never be a privilege but a right.
If you do not identify as BIPOC, we warmly invite you to explore other PSNY events.
