Like Poetry: A Survivor’s Guide, this companion is only one of many possible companions that could be assembled. In other words, this companion is inceptive and illustrative, not prescriptive and exhaustive. As with the guide, you can begin with any section you like; though, the best way to approach the online material is first to read or re-read the section from the guide.

In WRITING, you will find poems as well as writing “experiments,” a name we prefer to “prompts” or “exercises,” that underscores the importance of trial and error and serious play when it comes to making poems. In some sections, such as MFA, publishing, and professionalization, we also point you to helpful resources or venues for further inquiry.