by Writing Workshops Staff
13 hours ago
If you’ve ever dreamed of writing a full-length poetry collection but felt overwhelmed by the process, we have something special for you.
Starting this March (2025), WritingWorkshops.com will host an immersive, yearlong poetry mentorship led by poet and educator Lauren Brazeal Garza. This course is your chance to transform your poetic inklings into a polished manuscript—one that’s ready to send out into the world.
It’s Time to Turn Your Poems into a Book
Even seasoned writers get stuck. Whether you have a handful of poems you’re proud of or just a single idea that’s been rattling around in your head, the key to success is structure and expert guidance. In this 12-month program, you’ll develop and refine your poetry under Lauren’s mentorship, bolstered by the support of visiting authors, editors, and publishers along the way.
But here’s the best part: You’ll walk away with a full draft of your poetry collection—and the confidence to share it with contests, editors, and your future readers.
Meet Your Instructor: Lauren Brazeal Garza
Lauren Brazeal Garza knows firsthand the power of story and verse. She’s the author of five books of poetry and fiction, including Gutter (her memoir-in-verse chronicling teenage homelessness) and her forthcoming hybrid literary horror novel, The Devotee. She earned her MFA from Bennington College and her PhD in Literature from The University of Texas at Dallas, where she now teaches creative writing and literature. Lauren’s teaching style is supportive, practical, and filled with deep knowledge gleaned from years in the literary trenches.
How the Workshop Works
1. Craft Talks, Exercises & Guest Speakers (March 5 – May 7, 2025)
- Write brand-new poems through in-class exercises.
- Gain crucial insight into the art of assembling a poetry collection.
- Study one famous poem each session to explore fresh techniques and spark ideas.
- Enjoy craft talks from award-winning poets like Mary-Alice Daniel, Jennifer Givhan, Roy Guzmán, Tanya Olson, Mag Gabbert, Lisa Low, Tracy Diamond, and more.
- Receive two individual consultations with Lauren.
- By May, you’ll have 10–20 new poem drafts—momentum that carries you forward into the heart of your project.
2. Workshops (May 28 – June 25 & July 23 – September 24)
- Keep writing outside of class, then bring your poems in for workshop and peer feedback.
- Each poet will submit up to five poems three times, with two more one-on-one meetings to discuss individual progress.
- By the end of this section, expect 15 polished drafts plus 10–20 additional new poems—a substantial chunk of your collection.
3. The Business of Getting Published (October 15 – November 12 & January 7 – February 4, 2026)
- Learn the ins and outs of publishing from literary journal editors and small press publishers.
- Talk about your goals directly with professionals who live and breathe the publishing world every day.
- Meet with Lauren one more time to map out next steps for polishing and sending your manuscript into the world.
- While publication can’t be guaranteed, you’ll finish the program with a completed manuscript and strategies to boost your chances of success.
What You’ll Receive
- 120 hours of instruction
- 35 generative prompts to jump-start new poems
- Five 45-minute one-on-one sessions with Lauren
- Peer and instructor feedback on 15 poems
- Access to guest authors, editors, and publishers
- A class website for discussion boards, posting new drafts, reading recommendations, and building community
- A finished poetry manuscript you can submit to contests and editors
An Experience that Transforms Your Writing
Sometimes, hearing from previous students says it best:
“This was one of the most charming and well-put-together courses I've had the pleasure of taking. Discussions were open and full of ideas... Ms. Brazeal Garza was an excellent teacher.” –Tiffany W.
“Lauren is phenomenal! She is extremely passionate, kind, and smart. She has the student's best interests at heart and makes great points on improving our writing.” –Megan K.
“This class...has changed everything for me. I have a renewed confidence in my ability, my voice, my story.” –DeAnne H.
Important Details
- Application Deadline: Apply by February 1st, 2025. Early applications are encouraged, as space is limited.
- Do Not Pay Yet: Please wait for your formal acceptance email before making any tuition payments.
- Program Tuition: $6,800 USD (payment plans available). Once you’re accepted, you commit to the full year and all assigned deadlines.
Got questions? Use the Chat Button (lower left on your screen) and we’ll be happy to help.
Is This the Right Program for You?
- If you’re ready to devote time and energy to your writing, this MFA-level experience could be exactly what you need.
- If you’re stuck and need fresh input—or just have the spark of an idea—you’ll get the structure, accountability, and expert feedback to bring your poems to life.
- You’ll leave with a completed manuscript in hand and the know-how to navigate the literary world.
Take the Next Step
Creating a full-length poetry collection doesn’t have to be a lonely endeavor. With 12 Months to a Full-Length Poetry Collection, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a supportive community of fellow poets and guided by a teacher who’s deeply invested in your work.
If you’re serious about taking your poetry from first page to final page, click here to apply by February 1st, 2025. Remember, don’t pay until you receive your acceptance email—and be prepared for a transformative year.
We can’t wait to read your poems. Your story is waiting to be told. Let’s get those verses out of your head and onto the page.
