Initially I did not know what the “Big Read” project was even about, but after my experience at the County Home in Dunkirk, I am proud to say that this year I took part in it. As an English graduate student I have always had a passion for literature and writing. Sometimes I forget this passion when I am overwhelmed by a heavy course load, but I can honestly say that on March 2nd 2010, the residents reminded me of the pleasure, connection, and intellectual conversation that a shared reading of a novel can bring. Willa Cather’s My Antonia, sparked an interest in the residents, and many were eager to comment on issues such as a woman’s role in the household during the time period of the novel, as well as what their nationality meant to them. They knew that women were an essential part in taking care of the household, taking on a role that was just as significant as the role of men. National identities were also considered as they thought about their heritage and what it now means to be an American, or a “mongrel” as one woman put it. They were a welcoming group, full of interesting stories and even a few humorous jokes. Sharing time with them was a joy and I feel that our class was able to not only engage them with the novel, but also bring literature to their lives that they could enjoy, relate to, and converse about even after our visits.
Posted by: Natalie Hewitt
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I agree Natalie. Its strange going out into the world and talking about the novel. I'm more used to having to discuss in a classroom. Its fun and interesting being able to talk to people within the community about and have an intellectually filling conversation.
ReplyDeleteAs a librarian, it's interesting for me to hear about your experiences as students taking discussion of the novel out of the academic setting. It's affirming to hear how meaningful these discussions have been, and how a shared love of literature can bring people together in such a poignant way. Yay books!
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