This course is designed to help students sharpen their skills as readers and writers of poetry by focusing on various elements of poetic craft.  In addition to reading and discussing poems by masters of the form, writing analytical essays, and giving oral presentations, students will write and revise poems of their own throughout the semester.  Student poems will be the focus of a number of "workshop" sessions.  Particular attention will be given to such elements as line, syntax, diction, image, music, rhythm, tension, and surprise, as well as to matters of intention, subject, and meaning.  Readings -- from an assigned anthology and several collections -- will range from formal verse to free verse and prose poetry.  Creative assignments for this course are designed to help each student develop her own individual voice while working within a variety of forms.  Both new and experienced writers are welcome.