The Central RED Society will host a two-part presentation “Memory and Self-Discovery: A Hands-on Introduction to Exploratory Writing,” with Dan Weeks, a retired book and magazine editor, Tuesday, Oct. 8, and Tuesday, Oct. 15.
Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. in the Dave ’61 and Ardie Sutphen ’64 Common Room, Central’s Graham Annex. The cost is $40. The program will begin at 6 p.m. each day.
Weeks reminds us that we’re made of memories — some are clear and straightforward, others puzzling and inexplicable. We wonder: Why did that happen to me? What does it mean? How has it affected me? Why do I remember it?
Exploratory writing is a tool to uncover and understand these memories. Personal essay writers use this method to discover aspects of themselves they may not fully grasp, and the insights they gain can be valuable to both the writer and the reader.
During each session, Weeks will read aloud from a personal essay spawned from a memory. The class will discuss the essay. Participants are encouraged to write and share their own essays in the second session. Essays should be emailed to Weeks in advance of the second session. He will select a range of writings to present to the class, highlighting a variety of memories and writing styles.
Weeks has a B.A. from Grinnell College and an M.A. in creative nonfiction writing from the University of Iowa. He has written and edited magazines ranging from Civitas to Better Homes and Gardens publications along with more than a dozen books, including the Discovery Channel bestseller “Deadliest Catch: Desperate Hours.” He’s lectured and led workshops on writing and creativity at colleges, universities and leadership training organizations nationwide.
Central RED (Ready to Engage and Discover) is a volunteer-driven, lifelong learning and social organization with an abiding partnership with Central alumni and friends who wish to share knowledge, talents and experiences. No affiliation with Central is required.
For more information and to make a reservation, contact Mary Benedict, director of engagement, by email at benedictm@central.edu or by phone at 641-628-7641.