English 40 - Winter, 2011

Introductory Topics in Literature

Topic: Reading Like a Writer

Class Information

Instructor: Corin, Lucy
CRN: 43860
Time: TR 4:40-6:00
Location: 158 Olson

Description

Reading like a Writer: Language, Madness, and Creativity.
In this course, in which we “read like writers,” we’ll trace a network of thematic threads from text to text, looking at the way language itself creates meaning, and using close reading techniques as well as expressive and exploratory writing techniques to understand the complexities of our individual experiences with the texts. Our primary readings will be novels and novellas that feature artists, thinkers, and the insane, but we’ll also explore other forms: a play, a radio documentary, a short story or two, a poem or two, an essay or two. Papers will require critical analysis but will stray from traditional paper formats. Authors include Don Delillo, Roberto Bolano, Sandra Cisneros, Knut Hamsun, Virginia Woolf, and Daniel Handler (aka Lemony Snicket), who will be visiting class.

Grading

Two 5-page writing assignments will ask you to engage in active and unconventional ways with readings. Midterm and final will include analytic essay. Class participation counts.

Texts

Hunger, Knut Hamsun
Mrs. Dalloway, Virginia Woolf
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf, Edward Albee
A Series Of Unfortunate Events: The Bad Beginning, Lemony Snicket
The Part About Amalfitano (from 2666), Roberto Bolano
White Noise, Don DeLillo
Course Reader, from Davis Copy