Poetry Writing Workshop

Reported by ELC

        On 2nd April the English Language Centre conducted the first ever poetry workshop which was  facilitated by Professor Dr. Malachi Edwin Vethamani and Dr. Too Wei Keong from the University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus.

   The objectives of the workshop were to prompt and guide learners through the process of poetic expression and create work that is specific in language and precise in theme.

   The first session of the workshop was designed to build content knowledge where the participants delved into the art and craft of poetry writing strategies and the second session focused on the production of poetry by participants both individually and in groups.

        Prof. Malachi Edwin Vethamani started the session by asking the participants a question:

        Why do you like poetry?

        The participants were asked to share their thoughts on poetry and with that Professor Malachi moved on to the next stage where participants were taught the common literary devices as well as their usage in poems generally.

        Participants were totally engaged with the delivery by Professor. Edwin as there was a high degree of interaction throughout the first session. Prof. Edwin also took pride in reciting one of his own poems during the workshop which spurred the participants on!

        Then, during the second half, Dr. Too led the hands-on practice in poetry writing. During this session the participants were given time to create their own lines. Dr. Too encouraged the participants by saying that in poetry writing each and every one of us has a unique voice and a story to tell so he suggested that they think beyond the frame. All of them were fully involved in putting their thoughts into words during this session with the guidance from both the inspiring trainers who had successfully created a “poetry- filled” ambience.

        At the end of the second session all poems written by the participants were displayed on the whiteboard and read aloud by the poets themselves.  Prof. Edwin and Dr. Too were both truly impressed and gave very motivating comments to all the participants. The session ended with a certificate giving ceremony by the trainers to all participants. All in all it was a very inspirational workshop for both the participants and trainers.


Soh Xi Ken (S2 Washington)
      The workshop was quite fun. I learned about the basics of poetry, how to write one, and probably one of the most important lessons, how to enjoy poetry. We had even written some before the class ended. Professor Edwin and Dr. Too gave pointers on how to improve our newly-learned craft.





Wesley Lau Wei Zhong (J3 Ottawa)
        I thin
k that the poetry workshop was great. It showed me a new way of writing and at the same time gave me an option to use my time properly during the school holidays. Besides, it also gave me some directions on understanding the greatest poet of all time and one of my heroes---William Shakespeare. In conclusion, I think that this was a meaningful workshop.