Disability, Queerness & Possibility: A Multi-Genre Workshop

In this multi-class workshop, we will study essays and poems from disabled and neurodivergent writers (like Johanna Hedva, Rob Macaisa Colgate, & more) and write and workshop our own. Using Hedva's definition of the body as "a thing that needs," we will examine our own experiences of the body, disability, ableism, care, access, & beyond and write into the spaces around these themes in both essays and poems. With this rhizomatic, collective ontology of knot and need in mind, instructor Rose Zinnia (a queer, autistic/ADHD, disabled poet & essayist) will supply literary & craft readings and offer her own ideas, forms, and prompts to guide participants into exploring and expanding their writing practice. We will engage in generative class writing prompts together as well as write our own pieces outside of class to bring in for group workshops. For workshops you will be able to choose to submit an essay or a few poems each week, but it is encouraged to try your hand at both (or create hybrid forms!) While prompts will be given, self-direction and personal discovery of what and how you want to write your poems/essays is also very encouraged and welcome!

This is a class focused on disability and neurodivergence. The workshop space will value and center inclusion, diversity of thought and perspective, mutual respect, compassion, vulnerability, and care (and we will add more to that list together!) Absolutely no forms of hate or violence will be tolerated. We will co-create community and kinship in this class. We are here to support and grow each other's work. We will be curious and generous with our witnessing and holding of each other's writing!

This workshop will center bewilderment and curiosity along with a critical eye to encourage participants to discover the edges of the possibility of their poetry & essays and feel out fresh perspectives, forms, and styles while enhancing and celebrating their authentic and unique voice.
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‍Details: Disability, Queerness & Possibility: A Multi-Genre Workshop with Rose Zinnia takes place Monday, July 21, July 28, August 4, and August 11 from 6:30-8:30pm remotely online via Zoom.

‍Prerequisite: None

‍Genre: Multigenre

‍Level: All levels

‍Format: Workshop

‍Location: This class takes place remotely online via Zoom.

‍Size: Limited to 12 participants.

‍Scholarships: Two scholarship spots are available for this class for writers in Northeast Ohio. Apply by April 28.

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