In this weekend gathering, we’ll spend intense time with a variety of writings by the German poet Rainer Maria Rilke. Discussions will consider how Rilke was able to develop an intense and imaginative intimacy with his readers—how, in the words of his translator Stephen Mitchell, “the volatility of emotion” grew from “the volatility of the writing itself.” In our own first drafts, we’ll experiment with some of Rilke’s approaches, pushing ourselves into new imaginative spaces.

This online weekend session is open to anyone, working at any level, who is eager for conversation and deep engagement. The sessions will include generous writing time, an afternoon revision workshop, and an evening poetry reading for participants.