Put your writing on the right em-path

How can we develop empathy toward others? Join Willamette Writers Coast Chapter to explore the answer with guest poet Willa Schneberg at Newport Public Library this Saturday, April 19. Schneberg will lead a generative writing workshop titled, “Developing Empathy Through Writing the Persona Poem.”

The Persona Poem written in the voice of another person, real or imagined, can bring empathy and compassion into the fore. Participants are encouraged to come with ideas for poems, essays or character sketches of individuals they have a special interest in knowing. There will be time to share writing and discuss processes.

Prior to the workshop, Schneberg will read from her sixth and most recent poetry collection, “The Naked Room.”

As a poet, ceramic sculptor, interdisciplinary artist and curator, Schneberg has been honored with the Oregon Book Award in Poetry, the Barbara Deming Memorial Fund Award, second place in the Allen Ginsberg Poetry Awards and numerous residencies. Her poetry has been translated into multiple languages. Currently, she is working on a poetry/photography project, “What We Hold & Leave Behind” with photographer Jim Lommasson.

The Willamette Writers Coast Chapter hosts a mix of in-person and virtual events from September through June. Willamette Writers, the parent organization, is the largest writers association in Oregon and one of the largest in the nation.

Saturday’s program begins at 2 pm at Newport Public Library, located at 35 NW Nye Street. For more information, go to willamettewriters.org.