Introduction to Poetry Writing

English Writing

Location
Belfast and Ballycastle, Northern Ireland

Description

The course will begin in Ballycastle, at Corrymeela, a community dedicated to peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland, and across the globe. From Corrymeela, students will venture to such cities as Belfast, and Derry, in order to learn firsthand about the conflict in Northern Ireland. Students will meet with leaders and thinkers, and experience a richly creative and troubled culture. The course may include a short trip to the Irish Republic as well.

In this thought-provoking environment, students will create poetry that assumes the premise that the writing of poetry is a social act, and as such has consequence in the world. We know that poetry has the power to address the social problems of injustice, violence, racism, sexism, and poverty, but a salient question for us is: can poetry be a factor in the transformation of social conditions? Students will participate, using poetry writing, journaling, and direct experience, to join with people, both Catholic and Protestant, in Northern Ireland, to learn about their unique situations, troubles, and struggles for peace. Through numerous creative, scholarly and service assignments, students will explore their own deepening commitments to writing, reflection, and helping others.

The central focus for the inquiry and reflection in this course is whether poetry can take its place among other forms of artistic expression, as a means to peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. We will ask such questions as: What is poetry of the political imagination? Can poetry be said to be Çactivism¨? Can poetry improve social conditions? How has poetry developed in Northern Ireland? Can personal poetry be political? Is there a best type of poetry? What contribution can words make?

In advance of our trip to Northern Ireland, you will be asked to write one Reading Response and two Journals and submit it to the instructor over email or fax. Final coursework for the class may also be completed upon return.

This course satisfys a "Creative Expression" requirement at the University of Pittsburgh.

Northern Ireland
The backdrop to our course will be Northern Ireland's stunning and fascinating beauty. Experience the richness of both rural and urban settings, visit the neighborhoods in conflict and discover Belfast, a city like no city in the world. Possible visits to Giant's Causeway and the Northern coast will be arranged. Corrymeela, our service partner, will enhance our course by sponsoring workshops and talks by leaders directly involved in the peace process. We will have the opportunity to absorb the Northern Irish culture every day through cultural activities, reflection sessions, visits with local community members, and our meaningful service work.

Details

Instructor: Annabelle Clippinger


Credits: 6

Service-Learning Abroad : May 21 - June 11, 2004

Credits Awarded: Credits are awarded for this course through the University of Pittsburgh. This course fulfills Introduction to Poetry Writing (ENGWRT 0530) for 3 credits and English Writing Independent Study (ENGWRT 1901) for 3 credits.