THE POETICS OF ATTENTION: How to See Like a Poet
The class will meet weekly via Zoom on Wednesdays, 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Central Time
Who is this course for? This course is a 4-week workshop on the radical art of perception—how deep noticing, poetic image, and the philosophy of attention can reawaken our creative lives. Through guided writing, readings, and presence practices, participants will learn to see like poets: with clarity, curiosity, and reverence.
To write poetry is one way to see the world differently. It is a processing of truth of nature. It is a deep attention to felt experience, nuances, and subtleties in life on earth. In The Poetics of Attention, we explore what it means to sharpen our perception, refine our noticing, and experience the world with the full capacity of our senses and soul.
This generative workshop invites participants into the practice of attention as devotion. Drawing from poetic traditions and contemplative practices, we’ll ask: What does it mean to see like a poet? How can we cultivate the kind of attention that leads to clarity, resonance, and truth on the page?
Through guided exercises, close readings, and sensory prompts, we will practice writing not from the mind alone, but from the whole body—creating work that honors the intricate beauty of the world around and within us.
This workshop is ideal for those seeking to deepen their poetic voice by returning to the root of all creative expression: presence.
Course Texts will be provided by the instructor.
WRITING GOALS:
In this course, students will generate at least four new drafts of poems or poetic fragments that arise from deep observation, sensory engagement, and focused attention. Each week will invite participants to develop a unique piece that responds to guided prompts, close readings, and presence-based exercises designed to stretch their perception and poetic intuition.
COURSE OUTLINE:
Each 90-minute session combines poetic study, generative writing, and mindful observation practices.
Week 1: Attention is the Beginning – Awakening the Senses
Week 2: Naming the World – Language, Precision, and Presence
Week 3: Seeing with the Heart – Emotional Truth and Image
Week 4: Writing as Witness – Honoring the Lived and the Seen
COURSE TAKEAWAYS:
A Refined Perceptual Practice: Learn how to see with more clarity, presence, and poetic acuity—both on and off the page.
New Work Rooted in Deep Noticing: Write multiple original poems inspired by observational exercises and attention-based prompts.
Enhanced Poetic Craft: Strengthen your use of image, language, and metaphor through the lens of attuned perception.
Creative Tools for Everyday Awareness: Build a personal toolkit of attention practices that support a lifelong creative rhythm.
Connection Through Shared Presence: Participate in a community of writers devoted to wonder, witness, and making the invisible visible.
TESTIMONIALS:
"While I have long enjoyed writing poetry, Lindsey’s clear, kind, and concise guidance truly inspires me to embrace the practice more, to let go and allow the creativity to move me into my love of poetry. Lindsey creates a kind, concise, and generous workshop in which all who care to participate can thrive. I wish for four more weeks, but out of gratitude for what I have already been given through Lindsey’s presence and kindness, I will not push the river and sincerely express my gratitude. Thank you so much, Lindsey!" -Pamela
"I am grateful to have stumbled upon Lindsey's class. She is devoted to the craft of poetry and yet she is standing at the doors to welcome others in who care to explore the artform along with her. Her teaching is both wise and open. She offers prompts that allow you to start with the familiar and then follow a thread until you surprise yourself. There is room to play but she also gives a lot of tips and insights into technique. She managed the class in a way that gracefully kept a structure while encouraging the students to be themselves as they are. In just four weeks our class formed a unique connection that I will treasure. It is truly a gift to work with Lindsey." -Ilana
"I loved the class so much. It was very supportive and inspiring. We covered a lot of material, and I appreciate all the referrals for books, and I have purchased a number of them. One of the most helpful things was Lindsey's introduction to haiku. I feel that continuing to compose haiku will be the building block to advance my poetry. I see how beautiful, thoughtful things can be expressed in just a few plain words. I think that was such a phenomenal place to start. I would love to be in another class of Lindsey's. Her knowledge and love of poetry, your enthusiasm, and generosity really touched me! Thank you for sharing your joy with us." -Teresa
"Lindsey provided a welcoming space for learning, creativity and inspiration to unfold. Her love of the craft of poetry shined through in all of her offerings throughout our time together. I'm so happy that I took this class!" -Anita
"Not only did Lindsey share practical advice and her personal experiences with poetry, she also taught me how the world we live in reveals poetry to those of us who choose to truly notice. This class was a true gift that changed my writing, as well as my mindset." -Kayla
"This was my first ever poetry class, and I couldn't ask for a better place to start. Lindsey introduced us to an endless source of inspiration and showed us ways to write about it. She's a very sensitive and supportive teacher. Highly recommended." -Martha
"It has been an absolute pleasure to be a part of three classes with Lindsey Wayland." -Sharon Wenzler
“I want to thank Lindsey again for the wonderful impact she has had on me. Since I met Lindsey, I knew I wanted to work with her. If there is one word to describe Lindsey, it is grace. I immensely enjoyed taking a class with Lindsey. It was the highlight of my summer and time actually spent since I've moved to Port Townsend. I love to learn. I love to nourish my love of writing. I cannot tell you how much I looked forward each week to Lindsey’s unique classes. Each of the weeks I experienced new techniques and opportunities in writing. The class is a priceless gem. Thank you so very much. Soli dei gloria.” —Dr. Dolores Jacoby
“What a Great Delight to have Lindsey here and for me (and all) able to experience her and her vast trove of talent, with which she is so generous! What Luck!!!”—Rachel Gaspers
"Lindsey’s classes are a must for everyone wanting to take a deep breath and be intentional about beauty and creativity in their lives. Fun, inspirational, and really a gift to yourself!! Lindsey is a gentle, generous, and a real gem!!! This is art that you can incorporate into your everyday life." —K.B.
ONLINE COURSE STRUCTURE:
This class meets weekly via Zoom. Come prepared for a super fun class with live interaction on Zoom each week and plenty of writing, reading, and talking!
PAYMENT OPTIONS:
Tuition is $299 USD. You can pay for the course in full or use Shop Pay or Affirm to pay over time with equal Monthly Payments. Both options are available at checkout.
Instructor: Lindsey Royal Wayland — email me with any questions: hello@lindseywayland.com
This seminar will meet on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2025
Live Seminar via Zoom 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Central Time
Tuition is $299 USD