John G. Neihardt famously wrote: “Poetry is indeed the supreme form of human expression” and for Neihardt, poetry was also a mystical path that led him round the Sacred Hoop in Black Elk’s vision. For poets on this sacred path, writing is a way of seeing, of walking, of living; it is a life’s work that enlivens the poet and the listener. The words of Black Elk as recorded by Neihardt and Neihardt’s own poetry both create and reveal the Sacred Hoop vision. Our own works of creativity can lead us on this sacred path into the heart of the earth community.

Jack Phillips and colleagues from The Naturalist School will lead a Sacred Hoop-themed poetry workshop with prompts taken from Black Elk Speaks. Participants will write in small groups in the Sacred Hoop Garden and other sites on the grounds. Each group will contribute lines to create a collaborative poem to be shared at a future poetry reading at the Center. No prior writing experience required. This workshop is intended for adults, but children may attend with an adult family member. 

Please bring a notebook, journal, or something to write on!

Jack Phillips is a poet, nature-writer, naturalist, and Principal of The Naturalist School. Read some of Jack’s Black Elk-inspired poetry at https://www.thepoetmagazine.org/jack-phillips---usa

Learn about The Naturalist School at www.thenaturalistschool.org