Poetry of Courage
4-weeks (first 4) | Registration closed 9/10/2025
"Courage is not the strength of the body. . . but the strength of the spirit," wrote poet J.R.R. Tolkien. Poetry's insight and invigorating power show the spirit's strength by its lasting existence. Poems have always inspired and supported us, calling forth our own power and endurance. In these turbulent and challenging times, we need and seek words that call forth our own inner perseverance. As a response to that need, we will be enriched by the writers Louise Gluck, Ted Kooser, Mary Oliver, Billy Collins, Maya Angelou and more. Together, we will listen to their words. Poems will be emailed individually in advance of each class. The classes will include reading, reflection, discussion and lectures.
Suggested Readings: The poetry of Maya Angelou, Ada Limon, Pablo Neruda and others.
Marcy Dolan
Marcy Heidish-Dolan is an award-winning author of 18 published books: poetry, fiction and nonfiction. She is a recipient of a Schubert Fellowship and a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. A Vassar College honors graduate, Marcy has taught creative writing and English Literature at Georgetown, George Washington, and Fordham Universities. For almost twenty years she was a regular weekly volunteer at a local shelter for homeless women. Marcy and her husband are long-time residents of Washington, D.C.