Reading and Writing Audre Lorde

About this course

The course examines Audre Lorde’s essays and poetry through close reading, discussion and short lectures. It considers the personal and political contexts of her work, her approach to writing about self and society, and the features of her literary style. Creative writing exercises then respond to Lorde’s ideas and methods. Participants explore themes that matter to them, consider what style means, and develop passages in their own writing voice through tutor-led and individual activities.

What you'll learn

• Identify key features of Audre Lorde’s literary style
• Relate Lorde’s writing to its historical, personal and political contexts
• Analyse themes and concerns in selected essays and poems
• Craft original passages responding to Lorde’s ideas and style

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for intermediate learners with some prior experience of creative writing and literary study. Participants should be comfortable reading fiction and creative non-fiction, discussing their ideas, and sharing their writing in a group setting. Fluency in English is expected.

• Some prior creative writing or literary study experience is expected
• Participants discuss ideas and may share their writing with the group
• The course involves reading assigned texts before attending

Before you go

• Essay extracts and poems are provided in advance by email, with hard copies available on the day
• Learners should bring writing materials
• A laptop or tablet may be used during writing activities
• Learners are encouraged to alert the tutor and classmates in advance if shared writing contains sensitive material