This course celebrates some of the key writers of American literature, from Emily Dickinson to Billy Collins. There will be a case study of John Berryman’s "Dream Songs", and a special session on Lawrence Ferlinghetti (who celebrated his 100th birthday this year). Other poets include Robert Frost, Anne Sexton, and Adrienne Rich. No experience necessary.
Course aim
To explore the links between poetry, history and the individual. We will read a text closely; be it poem, criticism, film or painting. We will then examine that text in its literary and historical context.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- Must be able to read English.
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Connect Emily Dickinson to “Sex and the City”.
- State which American poet was awarded 44 honorary degrees.
- Describe John Berryman’s “Dream Songs”.
- Name the American poet who celebrated his 100th birthday earlier this year.
- Describe Anne Sexton’s impact on Scottish poet laureate Jackie Kay.
How will I be taught?
- The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning
- You may be asked to undertake additional work in your own time to support your learning
- People will be expected to keep up with the reading and to contribute in class discussions (if they wish to do so).
What kind of feedback can I expect?
- A range of informal activities will be used by the tutor to see what you are learning which may include quizzes, question and answer, small projects and discussion
- You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor
- Informal feedback; there will be no formal tests or exams.
What else do I need to know?
- All materials will be provided
Pre-course work, reading and information sources
- No pre reading or pre course work is required
What can I do next?
- Progress to another WEA course
- There will be a “Classic Poems” course by the same tutor in the following term.
Download full course information sheet
