Reimagining and Reclaiming Nature: Body, Creature, City, Earth

Instructor: Michael McColly
Date: 6 Mondays: March 5, 12, 19, 26; April 2, 9
Time: 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

A growing body of scientists argue that humans have permanently altered the earth’s atmosphere, seas, soils, flora and fauna in ways that suggest the beginning of a new geological epoch. Yet our economies, habits of consumption, and beliefs about what nature is and what our responsibilities are for its collective health remain relatively unchanged.

Why is there such a disconnect? How did we get here? How can we respond as writers to reawaken and reeducate others to the ecological principles that govern not only our own body’s health but that of all living things, including the living earth?

In this nonfiction workshop, participants will explore how creative writing can help redefine our ideas of what nature is and reacquaint ourselves with the environments and biological life we share and depend upon every day. The course is designed to inspire your imagination and develop curiosity about the natural world all around us: in our bodies, in our pets, in our backyards, in empty lots and edgelands, in our words and desires, and in almost every decision and action we take. In the first five sessions, the instructor will provide prompts for short writing exercises; in the last two sessions, students will share their work for class feedback.