SPAN 1304

FWS: Under The Influence:Narcotics Writing in Latin America

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2014-2015.

In this seminar, we will study narcotic experience as a literary object.  Focusing on Latin American authors and the Hispanic literary tradition, we will read (in English translation) short stories, poems, and a novel that describe being under the influence of narcotics, withdrawing from narcotics, or being close to others who use narcotics.  We will explore the value that these experiences hold for authors and reflect on how authors have represented these kinds of experiences in language.  We will learn why some authors have compared these to the experience of writing and reading.  Students will develop writing strategies and skills, producing critical essays, creative fiction, and a research paper.

When Offered Spring.

Satisfies Requirement First-Year Writing Seminar.

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