In 1983, Mary Harwell Sayler wrote a home study course in poetry when nothing similar existed then used the material for over 20 years in working with students. In 2005, she revised the correspondence course into Poetry: Taking Its Course -- an 8.5 x 11 paperback that discusses:

I. “A Sense of Purpose” for your poems, including theme, interesting content, and fresh perspective

II. The Language of Poetry found in figurative speech

III. The Significance of Sound in rhyme, rhyme placement, and other interesting sound effects

IV. Rhythm: The Poem’s Heartbeat

V. Traditionally Good Form as found in classical fixed forms and stanzas

VI. Blank Verse Versus Free

VII. Professionalism & Publication session followed by Q&A.

To order your autographed copy, send your name, mailing address, and check or money order of $25.00 (shipping included) made payable to Mary Sayler, P. O. Box 62, Lake Como, Florida 32157-0062.

Bonus! After you have studied the techniques, traditional forms, and free verse in the book, take a 10% discount on your Poetry Critique.

Note To Parents Who Homeschool:

Your homeschooled child won’t receive academic credit for this course but will gain a broad understanding of poetry and a glimpse into creative writing. If your junior or senior high school child has a gift for poetry writing, consider providing a student critique for each practice session. Identify the work as “Student” and include the child’s age. Be sure to take a 10% discount on the normal critique fee too.

Planning A Poetry Workshop?

If you would like six or more copies mailed to a single address for your poetry class, workshop, or writing group, take a 40% discount from the total on your order. Please allow 2 to 3 weeks for your order to arrive by media-rate mail. If you need the books sooner, Contact Mary for a shipping price that fits your particular needs.