John Hersey Memorial Address 2008, Second Session: Lee Smith
Lee Smith gave the annual John Hersey Memorial Address to open the second session of the 2008 Seminar. In a talk that was both extremely funny and unexpectedly moving, Smith recounted her development as a writer when, as a young girl, she would write herself into Nancy Drew and Bobsie Twins adventures. Smith talks about how, after her initial obligatory autobiographical efforts, she discovered that she could find her voice though the creation of the wide variety of characters that she would imagine and create. Smith goes on to talk about the consolation and the re-birth that writing offered in the aftermath of terrible personal loss. Lee's subtle balancing of humor and pain, leavened by her warmth and her sturdy, both-feet-on-the-ground sensibility, is truly affecting--this one kicked off the session with a lot of energy and soul. download
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Each January, we explore a different literary theme through lectures, panel presentations, readings, informal gatherings, and discussions. In January 2011, we explore food in literature with our 29th annual Seminar, THE HUNGRY MUSE
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