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Song of Myself: Poetry of Walt Whitman

  • Wisdom House Retreat & Conference Center 229 East Litchfield Road Litchfield, CT, 06759 United States (map)

Presented by Robert F. Piazza

Rekindle your creative fire! Poets of all levels, from beginner to advanced, come together to read, write, and recite. Walt Whitman, father of free verse, transformed American poetry with his groundbreaking poem “Song of Myself.” Celebrate yourself as we explore Whitman’s spirituality and courage, singing “Nature without check with original energy.” Join us for a generative workshop in which we draft new material inspired by the poetry of Walt Whitman.  Bring your own pens, pencils, paper, & notebooks. Poems will be provided. Enjoy opportunities to nurture your muse!

The morning session will feature an interactive discussion of Whitman's poetry and spirituality involving everyone, PLUS a "craft talk" led by Rob in which he will teach new writing strategies and specific writing techniques based on & inspired by Whitman's poetry.  

$35 | HALF DAY Lunch Included (Until 1:00 PM)

The afternoon session will offer participants an opportunity to write their own material based on prompts by Whitman as well as a chance to discuss, revise, and critique their own writing with the group, offering ideas for further drafts and creativity. 

$60 | FULL DAY Lunch Included (Until 3:00 PM)

We’re honored to offer scholarship opportunities to programs and retreats, creating opportunities for everyone. Please call (860) 567-3163 to find out more.

The health and safety of our guests and staff are of paramount importance to us. We follow the COVID-19 guidelines provided by the State of Connecticut and the CDC. If Wisdom House is forced to close to comply with the guidelines issued by the State of Connecticut or the CDC, we will return all funds received to date.

Rob Piazza earned his MFA in Creative Writing at Fairfield University.  He teaches literature and composition at colleges and universities throughout New England.  His poems have recently appeared in October Hill Magazine, Neologism Poetry Journal, Heart of Flesh Literary Journal, Young Ravens Literary Review, Welter at University of BaltimoreandMonths to Years Literary Journal.  Currently, he serves as Poet Laureate of Litchfield, Connecticut. https://www.pw.org/directory/writers/robert_piazza