Calendar of Events

Poetry Workshop with Cornelius Eady

"What the Poem Wants"

July 27, 2026 · 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Garden House
$125/adults, $100/students

Commemorate the 250th anniversary of America's fight for independence with Poetry in the Garden's 2026 season, "Voices of the New Revolution." Each Monday this July, nationally acclaimed poets will share works that stand defiant of oppression and injustice, opting instead for empowerment, creativity, and empathy.

Limited to just 25 attendees, this 90-minute afternoon workshop, led by Cornelius Eady, an Academy of American Poets Chancellor who recently recited a poem at the inauguration of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, will include a thematic overview, a reading of poems that illustrate the theme, and a brief generative exercise with the opportunity to share one's work. Workshops are open to writers of all experience levels and genres. 

From Cornelius Eady: "'What does the poem want?' This is a different question than 'what does the POET want?' It’s not always the same answer. It’s a question that Cornelius Eady will ask and explore with you—through exercises, examples, and an informed talk. Cornelius promises to bring the level of attention to your voice that will help you along as you figure out how to sing on the page."

Registration opens soon! Students receive discounted rates - inquire at info@keelertavernmuseum.org for details.

Cornelius Eady's poetry collections include: Hardheaded Weather, nominated for an NAACP Image Award; Victims of the Latest Dance Craze, winner of the 1985 Lamont Prize from the Academy of American Poets; The Gathering of My Name; and most recently, The War Against the Obvious. With poet Toi Derricote, he cofounded the organization Cave Canem. Eady is recipient of The Academy of American Poets' 2025 Wallace Stevens Award and fellowships from the NEA, the Rockefeller Foundation, and the J.S. Guggenheim Memorial Foundation. A Chancellor of the Academy of American Poets, he recited his poem "Proof" at the inauguration of NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

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