Leeds is a vibrant hub of culture and has been a ground for many poets to learn their craft. It is also a university city and one where culture is put at the forefront, so there are a lot of different poetry organisations to support those with an interest in creative writing classes in Leeds.
In this guide, we’re exploring poetry classes in Leeds. Where can aspiring poets learn and grow their skills? How can poets meet like-minded people?
Poets From Leeds
Below, we’ve listed both some influential poets from Leeds and some who have ties to the city, many of which come from education. Leeds has a university with a strong reputation for creative writing and poetry. It is also not too far to Manchester where there is a thriving poetry scene.
1. Tony Harrison
Tony Harrison is one of the most prominent poets to come out of Leeds. His works often explore themes of language, class, and social issues. His poem "V" became particularly well-known for its commentary on social inequality. Harrison's distinctive voice and use of vernacular language have left a lasting impact on British poetry.
2. Ian Duhig
Ian Duhig is a contemporary poet born in London but now based in Leeds. He has won several awards for his poetry, including the National Poetry Competition. Duhig's poems often blend history, mythology, and modern life, creating intricate and thought-provoking works. Duhig graduated from Leeds University and has Teaching Fellowships at Lancaster and Leeds Universities.
3. Helen Mort
Helen Mort is a poet, novelist, and translator based in Sheffield, which is not too far from Leeds. She makes our list as she studied at the University of Leeds and is associated with the Yorkshire region. Her poetry often delves into themes of landscape, nature, and the human experience. Mort is a highly-regarded young poet, and she was elected Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in its "40 Under 40" initiative
4. Malika Booker
Malika Booker is a poet and performer who was born in London but lived and worked in Leeds for a period. She has been involved in various poetry and spoken word initiatives in the city and has made a significant impact on the poetry scene with her powerful and evocative writing.
5. Peter Spafford
Peter Spafford is a Leeds-based poet who has been actively involved in the city's poetry community for years. He has performed his work at various events and is known for his engaging and thought-provoking performances.
6. James Nash
James Nash is a poet and performer who has been part of the Leeds poetry scene for a considerable time. He has published several poetry collections and is known for his energetic and engaging live performances.
Remember the music we used to play?
James Morgan Nash, 2023
The instruments still hang on the wall,
a trellis of brass roses
or an exotic vine with bugle flowers.
Like plumbing but not joined up,
and silent now.
And the lid of the piano is down.
The tunes still prickle in my blood,
and though blooming less
each successive year,
have kept a scent of you.
And the truth is
that I have grown older and loved others,
but I shall always carry some notes of your music
in my pockets, like petals,
wherever I go.
Learning Poetry at Leeds Universities
Leeds is home to several universities that offer programs in poetry and creative writing. There are some options to learn poetry that rival top universities in London and Glasgow which has Strathclyde University.
These institutions provide students with opportunities to explore and develop their writing skills, including poetry. Here are some universities in Leeds that offer poetry and creative writing programs:
University of Leeds
The University of Leeds offers a variety of programs related to literature and creative writing. Their School of English offers undergraduate and postgraduate degrees that include modules and courses in creative writing and poetry. Students can engage with experienced faculty members and explore their creative potential.
“Our creative writing community benefits from partnerships with lkley Literature Festival, Leeds Playhouse, Leeds Grand Theatre, University of Leeds Poetry Centre and the School of Night (led by national Poet Laureate Professor Simon Armitage). We also support a thriving range of events and workshops with visiting writers.”
The University of Leeds is impressive and even has its own poetry centre with numerous events taking place within.
Leeds Beckett University
Leeds Beckett University also provides creative writing programs within their School of Cultural Studies and Humanities. These programs include modules focused on various aspects of writing, including poetry. Students can pursue both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees to enhance their writing skills.
“Whether you want to write poetry, short stories, novels, scripts, fiction or non-fiction, you’ll learn techniques to develop an idea into a final draft. Our guidance will ensure that you write to the best of your ability and find the right audience for your work.”
Leeds Trinity University
Leeds Trinity University offers a Bachelor of Arts in English and Creative Writing, allowing students to explore different genres, including poetry. The program focuses on developing writing skills and understanding literature's role in society.
These universities might offer a range of courses and workshops, from introductory classes to more specialised poetry workshops. It's recommended to explore each university's website for specific details about their creative writing and poetry programs, admission requirements, faculty, and available resources.
In year two, students get to “study, discuss and respond creatively to a range of poetry and prose dealing with myth, childhood, love and loss.
The myth element will draw on Greek and Roman mythology and that of other cultures.
Childhood, love and loss will draw on contemporary and non-contemporary literature.”
In addition to formal university programs, there are often community events, workshops, and poetry groups within Leeds that provide opportunities for writers to improve their craft and connect with other poets.
The Leeds Poetry Centre
One of the most impressive offerings in the city comes in the form of the Leeds Poetry Centre.
This is a significant poetry hub that hosts events and readings as well as supporting the wider poetry community in Leeds. In 2017, Simon Armitage was appointed to the Professorship of Poetry at the Leeds Poetry Centre, and it doesn’t get much more high-profile than that in terms of British poets in the 21st century.
The poetry school is known for its fellows, and their immense history of creative work as well as academia. The likes of Sarah Maguire, Ian Duhig, Simon Armitage, John Hartley Williams, Peter Sansom, Amanda Dalton, Kitty Fitzgerald, Paul Maddern, Linda France, Malika Booker, and many more have been involved in the programme.
Leeds Writers’ Circle
Those who are not in full-time education but who are interested in learning more about poetry may be interested in Leeds Writers Circle.
Leeds Writers’ Circle is very well-established and has a friendly and positive vibe. They meet at The Carriageworks, Millennium Square, Leeds and the meetings take palace between 7.30 – 9.30 pm, alternate Mondays. You can check their Twitter for more information on when they are meeting. There is a cost involved, and there are also Saturday workshops often run by professional writers.
On top of this, there are other groups that meet as part of the Writers’ Circle, so it is a good organisation to be involved in, and a way to learn about poetry and the poetry scene in the city.
Online Lessons With Superprof
Whether you are looking for poetry lessons in Birmingham, Manchester, London, or anywhere else in the UK, Superprof can be a brilliant solution.
There are hundreds of tutors working on the platform, allowing you to choose a flexible time for your lessons, and even choose between in-person and online lessons based on your own preference.
A lot of people find group meetings and workshops intimidating, and if you aren’t in mainstream education it can be harder to find the opportunities to learn poetry. Luckily, Superprof is a way to find professional writers who offer tuition services as well as being professionals in their own right.
Many Superprof tutors provide a free first lesson, allowing you to check if their learning style is correct for you. Leeds is a well-connected city, and this means that there are plenty of options to find a local tutor on Superprof. If you’re happy to take part in the lessons online then there is no need to look for those nearby.
Conclusion
Leeds is a city with a fascinating history when it comes to poetry, and even ties to the current poet laureate. The city is a fantastic educational hub for creative writing but there are also many opportunities to get involved for those who are not currently applying to college or university.
As well as the Leeds Writers’ Circle and events at the Poetry Centre, it is possible to find tutors in the region providing one-to-one lessons and helping to tailor your own creative writing.
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