In jazz and the blues, "the blue note"—a series of no-note notes or the variations of a note—strikes an emotional chord never replicated in predictive measure. Poet Yusef Komunyakaa refers to the poet's work as working towards a blue note, as well: ". . . we’re not forcing [a poem] into a preconceived mold. We are willing to be surprised and consequently, that mold is elastic." In this workshop, we will seek out and celebrate the blue note in various poems (both in free verse and form), and write/revise our work to more surprising, elastic, even reckless places. The workshop is generative, but you are encouraged to bring unfinished drafts, lines, or ideas, as well. All levels welcome.

Ciona Rouse (she/her) is a poet, curator, teaching artist, and bookstore owner in Nashville, TN.

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