Autoconceptualism: Developing Reflexive Writing Practices to Create Collective Action
Autoconceptualism, autotheory, autoethnography, biotext,
fictocriticism, fictionanalysis — how do we write in compelling ways
about ourselves? We’ll explore these terms to expand the potential for
autobiographical work and to see how we can use the materiality of
language to reflect our multiple and diverse realities. Engaging in
critical and creative research methods, we’ll determine how to
contextualize and situate both lived and imagined realities in ways that
make space for readers. We’ll use tenets and techniques from The Anti-Racist Writing Workshop
to decolonize the creative classroom as Felicia Rose Chavez indicates,
“advancing humility and empathy [instead of] control and domination.”
We’ll work together to gauge how readers are making sense of our writing
lives, and we’ll gather in small and larger groups to support each
other in building up a significant body of writing. We’ll examine
various case studies in the autoconceptual realm and hear from
practicing Canadian writers working in this way as part of the On Edge
Reading Series connected to this class. How do we make ourselves known?
Let’s work together to find out.
Students can register for 301 for 3 credits or register in 401 for a total of 6 credits. The classes will be distinct, but will overlap to extend workshopping potential and allow for both compatible and contrasting groupings in hybrid and online forms.
- Teacher: Jacqueline Turner