Writing has long been a means of exploring, connecting & understanding the natural world. Nature writing provides an opportunity to build a sense of place within a larger community. But how does environmental destruction impact that connection & sense of place? Have poisoned rivers, fracking, broken ecosystems, mass extinction & climate change altered the very nature of nature? How does environmental destruction impact the essence of nature writing?
Beginning on May 5, 2018 and running thru June 2, 2018 I will host a nature writing workshop in conjunction with SOMOS, the Society of the Muse of the Southwest, Taos’ literary society. It runs from 8am-12pm each Saturday morning with the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend off.
This 4-week course redefines traditional definitions of nature and nature writing. It looks at the complexity of environmental issues, reviews various forms of expression & asks us to reflect on our own experiences of nature & expand those reflections into coherent and well-formed essays using concrete details, point of view & vivid scenes. The course will focus on Taos Land Trust’s Rio Fernando Park, a damaged piece of agricultural land located in the center of Taos, New Mexico. With guest speakers and guides we will study these 20 acres from a historical, ecological & public policy perspective and gear our work towards eventual publication.
Praise from Past Students
“What a blessing it was to take time out for focused, creative time that took us out of ourselves and our schedules. I enjoyed, and benefited from, the balance of information, observation and exercises.” – Marylinn
“I really enjoyed your class and learned a lot. I thought your class was very well organized and the exercises were interesting.” – Phaedra
“What I liked about your class is that you kept it interesting and on topic. Something I greatly appreciate. It moved along and scattering lecture with exercise kept it lively. I also found your attitude and smile engaging and relaxing, even though you challenged us I never felt any judgment coming from you. Thank you.” – Jo
“Such a pleasure absorbing every moment of being in the natural world in such a unique way. Every exercise was a treasure. The class was a joy.” – Susan
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Time: 8.00am – 12.00pm, Saturdays, May 5, 12, 19 and June 2nd 2018
Location: Rio Fernando Park, Taos Land Trust, 410 LA POSTA ROAD, TAOS, NEW MEXICO 87571(www.taoslandtrust.org)
Price: $200/SOMOS members, $230/Non-members, minimum 5, maximum 12 students. Deposit of $25 due one week prior
To Register: Contact SOMOS, 575-758-0081, or somos@somostaos.org