Testimonials

Of Paul’s workshop facilitation, here’s what some have said about the experience:

“Paul is a remarkable teacher. His knowledge extends beyond poetry and poets to music, art. and culture in general. His enthusiasm and energy can transform a group of strangers into something like a community in a matter of minutes.” – Pamela Alexander, Poet, Associate Professor, Oberlin College, OH

“Paul shared his amazing work with taped interviews and it was a rare treat to hear poets talk about the process of writing. Paul did a great job uniting the ideas and energies of famous poets and showing us how we can dwell in that same creative space. I enjoy attending workshops where I am made to feel like I am part of the wonderful creative force of writers. Paul’s workshop validated my own work and gave me insights into how to bring spontaneous energy into my writing practice. I would like to know about other classes Paul will teach to the public.” – Linda Thompson, Writer, Educator

“Paul Nelson created the best lesson my students have experienced this year. He brought two poets to school who competed in a poetry bout in front of a group of three hundred teenagers here at Eastlake. Afterward Paul, Aundria and David presented a work shop that inspired the students to create their own poetry competition. Three weeks later Paul returned with Andrea to facilitate a bout among twelve students in front of their class mates. The whole thing was electric. There were no grades to motivate the students, but they listened with intensity and respect to each participant’s poetry. Afterward many students came up to me individually to tell me that the experience had been motivating and inspiring. Several students have shown me poems they wrote last night on their own after the bout…” – Brian Schuessler, Eastlake High School, Sammamish, WA

“…The poets you brought to teach the workshops were inspiring and at the same time encouraging to our audience of all ages and experiences. From the youngest to the oldest, everyone learned and enjoyed. We believe that poetry and the public library belong together and we cannot thank you enough for being willing to bring your team of experts to the University Place Library.” – Lauren Murphy, Supervising Youth Services Librarian, Pierce County Library System

“Last night was our SPLAB performance at Vashon’s new Youth Council club, the Crux. Wow! It was one of the most amazing, high-energy poetry evenings I’ve ever seen. Paul Nelson energized a diverse audience (ten adults and about 35 teens) and led them through…”– Rayna Holtz, Vashon Island Library

“…Paul, I would like to congratulate you on facilitating this very successful program. The SPLAB! curriculum proved to be very effective with this group and I was truly amazed by the caliber of work produced by these students!…” – Bonnie Cline, Young Adult Librarian, Auburn Library

“…We first encountered your genius for facilitating meaningful contact with poetry when we participated in the teen Poetry Slam. It was a wonderful, upbeat opportunity for our students to perform their work in a safe, supportive environment, and your tremendous enthusiasm and good cheer made it a complete delight…” – Cynthia Beebe, Annie Wright School Tacoma, WA