Introduction to Ghazals: Rich Tradition, New Poems

The ghazal poem is an intricate, richly symbolic poetry form, originating in 7th century Arabia. Ghazal poetry typically ruminates on matters of love (both divine and earthly), and while the ghazal form has some formal requirements (which will be explained), it is also incredibly rewarding to write.

In this workshop, we’ll look at diverse and fascinating ghazals by Agha Shahid Ali, Mimi Khalvati, Chrissy Banks and Patricia Smith, and start to draft our own ghazals, so that our poems can become part of the rich tradition of this ancient, fascinating form.

About Catherine Smith

Catherine Smith has written three full poetry collections – The Butcher’s Hands, Lip and Otherwhere; two pamphlets, The New Bride and The New Cockaigne; a collection of short stories, The Biting Point, and a radio play, Jellybelly, broadcast by BBC Radio 4. Two of her poetry collections have been shortlisted for Forward prizes. Her poetry and short fiction have been broadcast on BBC radio, widely anthologised and adapted for Live Literature performances. She is a freelance tutor and editor, and is currently working on a new collection of poetry, and a supernatural novel.

Zoom

These workshops will be conducted via Zoom. We have put together this simple 'How To' document to help you download Zoom, join a meeting, and navigate around the meeting features (such as adjusting video and audio, uploading files, and sharing screens).

You will receive a confirmation email from Ticket Tailor with your ticket and the Zoom invitation, containing the meeting link and Meeting ID & Password.

Someone from The Poetry Business team will be on hand prior to each workshop to offer additional help in getting connected.

There is usually a lot of interest in our workshops: in the interest of fairness, please limit yourself to one workshop ticket in every two week period.

Bursary Spaces

There are two bursary spaces available per workshop for writers from groups that are under-represented in contemporary poetry (for instance because of ethnic background) or who are experiencing financial hardship. If you would like to apply for one of these bursary places, please contact workshops@poetrybusiness.co.uk

Refunds

If you no longer wish to attend the workshop please let us know by emailing us. We ask for 3 working days' notice before the workshop starts in order to offer a full refund, and enable us to offer the place to someone else.

Though we will do all we can to help you get set up with the technology it is the participants' responsibility to ensure that their camera, microphone and other computer settings are configured correctly. Please contact us (workshops@poetrybusiness.co.uk) if you are concerned about getting set up for Zoom.