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Self-Paced Course

The Art of Being a Poet

Being a poet is about more than being a talented writer. It's a way of living and seeing the world.

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Deepen Your Writing Practice
Learn New Techniques and Rituals
Grow an Audience and Get Published

"Poetry is dead."

No it isn't. Poetry is among the most eternal forms of human expression.

In an age of AI, global crisis, and digital isolation, poetry matters more than ever. Writing and reading poetry awakens the inner artist and reminds us of our shared humanity, offering a cathartic purge that alchemizes our deepest thoughts and emotions into expression.

The Art of Being a Poet

Where Academy Meets Alchemy

Poetry is about much more than formal technique.

It's about awareness and sensitivity, living with an open mind and open heart.

My methodology combines mindfulness, somatic embodiment, and creative intuition, along with practical lessons on form, technique, and historical poetry movements, to offer inspiration and insight on both craft and consciousness.

Class Agenda

Class 1
Channeling the Muse
Mindfulness meets creativity.
Class 2
Style & Form
The craftsmanship of poetry.
Class 3
Posting & Publishing
Putting your work out there.
James McCrae

My Poetry Journey

I started writing poetry at age 14. By the end of high school, I had a stack of notebooks filled with poetry that nobody would ever read.

I stopped writing for years while chasing professional success. After feeling stuck in my advertising career, poetry saved my life. I started writing again, and got a few poems published in literary journals, which eventually led to book deals and over 500,000 Instagram followers.

Earlier this year, to my surprise, a poem I wrote called "Instructions Before Visiting Earth" went viral, being read or listened to by over 100 million people and translated into several languages.

Now I teach poetry, host open mics, and give talks about creativity around the world.

The most important decision on this journey was making a commitment to the craft of writing.

What Students are Saying

"James has deep knowledge and genuine passion which are apparent in every aspect of his teaching. What stood out most was his supportive and encouraging style — he made space for each of us."

Gael Johnson

"This class made me feel comfortable expressing my beliefs, experiences, fears, and joys. The community encouraged me to take creative leaps."

Blairr Ember

"James curated an incredibly inspiring and creative space where I was able to learn more about the art and history of poetry. This class re-ignited the flame of passionate creation in my heart."

Ashley Silberman

What's Included

Presentations by James McCrae
Video Writing Rituals
Lessons in Style and Technique
Poetry Prompts
Resources for Getting Published

Deepen Your Craft

Lessons, techniques, and rituals

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