Christine Swanberg Poet: Poet Laureate of Rockford

Poetry grew out of teaching creative writing. I sometimes did the writing assignments with my students and soon discovered that I really wanted to do something more with my writing. I studied the old time classics along with learning about the new and exciting modern poetry that was erupting around the country along with numerous writing programs. I sought mentors who helped me a long the way. Finally I came to a point where my “apprenticeship” felt fulfilled and it was time to fly solo. All of this took about 40 years. The themes that arise in my collections cross all boundaries. Sometimes I wish I were the kind of writer whose work is immediately recognizable by style, but I still “play” with form, both traditional and free verse. It seems that the poem itself dictates the shape it prefers. I do not know when I start a poem just where it will go. There is most often a moment of discovery or surprise. For me, that is truly the creative process.

If you would like to work with an established poet who knows a variety of poetry styles and strategies, please consider working with me. You can email me at rockfordpoetlaureate@gmail.com.. Here is my general bio. I am Rockford’s first official Poet Laureate.

I enjoy working with older folks and have written chapters in WRITING IN RETIREMENT. Here is a little bio for that.

I love working with women and have chapters written chapters for WOMEN AND POETRY.

• Here are some samples of a variety of poetry, from free verse to sonnets, to sonnet trios. I believe in the power of poetry for form words magically and that sometimes structure enhances that magic. Each poem “dictates” its own preferences, and I try to listen to what the poem wants. Here are a few varied examples:.

I hope that the selection of poems will entice you and help you find the mentor you have been looking for. I am open to varied styles, themes, and have helped many writers publish in magazines and their own collections. I am a little old-fashioned and not a whiz with technology. Maybe, just maybe, we might kindred spirits.