English 140 - Local Poets

Poetry has long been central to the culture of Amherst in particular and Western Massachusetts in
general. In this course we will read, think, and write about the work of several local poets past
and present. Emily Dickinson and Robert Frost–Amherst’s historical claims to fame–will anchor
the course as we explore how this place we now share affected their world views. We will also
study works by more recent poets who have called our area home, including Martin Espada,
Magdalena Gómez, Sonia Sanchez, and Ocean Vuong. Local poetry events during the semester
will give us the chance to encounter the region’s emerging voices.
 

The course will invite all learners, including those who have not taken a college-level English
course before, into the local and global community of readers who find meaning and purpose in
poetic uses of language, place, form, and history. As we focus on attentive close reading, we will
develop the skills needed to compose college-level essays on literature that express distinctive,
evidence-based claims in our own authentic voice. Writing requirements include a close-reading
essay and a research paper, as well as Moodle posts and responses along with in-class writing.

Limited to 18 students. Fall semester. Visiting lecturer Myers.

How to handle overenrollment: Preference is given to first and second year students

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: emphasis on written work (both in-class writing and homework essays, analytical and creative); close readings of texts, contexts, and theory; independent research; oral presentations; group work; in-class quizzes or exams; field trips.