Class

Hope and Imagination in Environmental and Nature Writing

At every turn, we see dire news of environmental degradation and biodiversity loss. While there are glimpses of hope and resilience, these stories are often drowned out by predictions of the coming climate apocalypse. The state of the world is overwhelming, but we can't solve our problems by wallowing in despair.

Among all the arts, the written word has the unique ability to elevate us above the current moment and to inspire new ways of thinking, not only by creating a vision for a different kind of future, but also by showing us the way there. In this class, we explore ideas of alternative paths and imagine other kinds of futures, where human beings might regain their status as a "keystone species" rather than the kerosene species we've become. We'll practice some writing prompts, share examples of writing that inspires us, and develop ways to continue to spark our imagination after the class is over.

To quote author Ruth Ozeki, "Without the power of imagination we lack the power to alter outcomes, so if we can't imagine better outcomes in a better world, we cannot act to achieve these. You can't make something you can't imagine first."

In this class, students will:
-create a learning collaborative community among class participants where we can all contribute and learn from each other about what inspires us, gives us hope and sparks our imagination
-become familiar with different styles of environmental writing and different ways to inspire hope and imagination. Discuss the pros and cons of the "Silent Spring" vs. the "Braiding Sweetgrass" approaches
-learn to cultivate the "ministry of imagination." Through generative writing, learn to let go of constraints of what may be "possible" or "reasonable" and put imagination before implementation or questions of what is "realistic"

All classes listed on the Loft website take place in Central Time.

Instructions for Accessing This Online Class

In order to access live class meetings, you must have the Zoom application downloaded to your computer. You will also need a WiFi/Internet connection throughout the duration of your scheduled meeting and a computer with audio and video capability. The information to join your Zoom classroom will be provided in your confirmation email upon registration. Please check spam folders if you do not see this email upon registration. For more information on how to use Zoom, please see our training manual here.