We’re learning how to become wiser by reading literature well. But talk to any modern author, and you’ll probably find that they don’t try to infuse their writing with wisdom. They aren’t thinking about how to hide a message in their work. Instead, most modern writers focus on the writing process itself—thoughtfully focusing on a subject and representing it in a way that is real, unfamiliar, relevant, and engaging. In this assignment, students will write a work of literature—a poem or series of poems, short story, or one-act play—and then reflect on what it has to tell us about the world and one whether it is a wise piece of literature. Success in this assignment depends on not thinking about philosophy while you write the work. It’s a two-part process: first write the piece of literature, then (and only afterward) reflect on it philosophically. Your poem, story, or play can be about anything you’d like with the exception of fantasy, science fiction, adaptation, or allegory. In other words, you are to write in a style that would generally be described as modern and realistic. SUBMISSION Your final submission will consist of three items: Your poem (or series of poems), short story, or drama. An essay of 3 – 4 pages (double spaced) about your piece that answers the prompt: Does this work of literature tell us the truth? An essay (1 page) response written by a classmate that also answers the question: Does this work of literature tell us the truth? Submissions will be assessed on their completeness, the effort shown in the creative work, and the quality and clarity of thought in the reflection.
