Caribbean women writers have reshaped contemporary Literature with explorations of identity, history, migration and belonging. This five-week discussion course introduces participants to selected short works by writers such as Jamaica Kincaid, Rosa Guy, Claudia Rankine, Ramabai Espinet and Merle Hodge. We will explore themes of mother-daughter relationships, cultural inheritance, exile, aging and resilience. Readings will be distributed in class, and no textbook purchase is required. The emphasis will be on shared reflection and dialog to discover how much we as a people share common aspects in our day-to-day lives; regardless of cultural upbringing. Hence, making the course accessible to experienced readers and those new to Caribbean Literature. Sessions will begin with a musical (3-5 minute) excerpt to contextualize cultural rhythms present in the Literature. They will feature the Calypso, Reggae, Mento, and the sounds of the steel pan which originated in Trinidad.
((Gemma Stemley - In-Person: CMU Campus - Wednesday))
