Interdisciplinary Arts 0280 - Contemporary African Writer

This creative writing seminar centers contemporary works by African authors. Contemporary African literatures in English and translation are flourishing, with many authors active in global literary communities and increasingly shaping the course of literature in English. Although most of our readings will be fiction, we will also read poetry and creative non-fiction. Class members will produce two creative pieces in a mode of their choice, and a reflexive essay. Members will also research and do a class presentation on some aspect of contemporary arts in Africa. Prerequisites: college-level writing course; experience in Africana or African studies welcome but not mandatory. We may read works by: Roland Rugero, Chigozie Obioma, Elnathan John, Jowhor Ile, Masande Ntshanga, Warsan Shire, Helen Oyeymi, Maria Ndiaye, and Tendai Huchu. Instructor Permission: PLEASE CONTACT THE INSTRUCTOR BY EMAIL BEFORE JANUARY 15, specifying the reasons for your interest and your experience and goals as a writer.

Independent Work Writing and Research In this course, students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time.