Writing Towards Reflection
A Creative Exploration of McGovern Lake
Writers and artists, refill your creative well this fall. Step away from your desk and practice fresh ways of looking, thinking, and recording landscapes both internal and external.
WRITING TOWARDS REFLECTION is an immersive walking investigation of McGovern Lake in Houston’s Hermann Park. Although the lake may have artificial origins, it has been transformed by a wealth of evolving ecological forces: from Muscovy ducks to channel catfish to honeybees. In many ways, McGovern Lake embodies the interplay between nature and nurture—one of several themes we will explore over the course of the session, all of which are linked by an overarching focus on reflection. What does it mean to see oneself seeing, for instance? How can image shape understanding? We will explore these questions and more through a combination of independent and collective creative exercises.
We'll meet at the Pinewood Café in Hermann Park’s Lake Plaza before venturing farther afield. Comfortable walking shoes are encouraged, though we are unlikely to walk more than a mile in total for the class. All areas will be fully accessible, and we'll always be within range of a restroom.
What if it rains?
A little drizzle will be manageable with umbrellas. If the forecast calls for heavy rain, our rain date will be Sunday, November 4.
Sharing your work is always optional. Facilitation will be in English, but you should feel free to write in any language.
Parking: Pinewood Cafe (6104 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, TX 77030, Phone: 713-429-5238) is located adjacent to the parking lot at the main entrance to Houston Zoo.
COST: $45
PARTICIPANTS: 12
FACILITATOR:
ALLEGRA HYDE
Allegra Hyde's stories and essays have been published by Tin House, Kenyon Review, New England Review, and other venues. Her debut story collection, Of This New World, won the John Simmons Short Fiction Award through the Iowa Short Fiction Award Series. She is the recipient of two Pushcart Prizes, as well as support from The Elizabeth George Foundation, the Lucas Artist Residency Program, the Jentel Foundation, the Bread Loaf Writers' Conference, Writing Workshops in Greece, the National University of Singapore, and the U.S. Fulbright Commission. Currently, she teaches fiction at the University of Houston.