Comparative Literature 591B - S-Poetry/Political Imagination

Any progressive social change must be imagined first, and that vision must find its most eloquent possible expression to move from vision to reality. Poets have a role in this dynamic process. The poets of the political imagination studied in this course go beyond protest to define an artistry of dissent. The course addresses how best to combine poetry and politics, craft and commitment. Every week, students read and discuss one book by a poet of the political imagination, such as Walt Whitman, Wilfred Owen, Sterling Brown, Pablo Neruda, Allen Ginsberg, Marge Piercy or Carolyn Forche. Readings are also augmented on occasion by recordings of the poets. Students respond to these poets with papers, presentations, or some combination.

4 seats are reserved for graduate students. If undergrads want to enroll in the class, please contact the instructor