WDtS Egleston: Beware the Chupacabra: (Re)Mixing Public and Private Mythologies

Class Description

Urban legends, superstitions, cryptids, folktales, omens: all of these are fertile sources of storytelling. And all of these are revealing, in their own ways, about the places from which they originate.

In this class, we will look at ways not just to retell these stories, but to remix these stories—to allow them to intersect, interact, and even clash with our own. Through guided writing exercises and selected readings, we’ll explore ways to expand the possibilities of voice. And we’ll explore how, through mythology—full of both cultural significance and creatures that may or may not exist—we might trouble the intersections of identity and ontology (the study of what it means “to be”).

Participants can expect to leave these sessions with at least the beginnings of a draft. All writers—including those writing in Spanish or Portuguese—of all levels are welcome!

Who Should Register?

Write Down the Street has a special focus on making the creative writing workshop more accessible to those who face challenges due to cost, language skills, lack of access to transportation, and other barriers. We believe that all voices must be spotlighted with the range and fullness they deserve.

These programs are offered tuition-free thanks to the support of generous donors who are committed to our mission of ensuring all voices are heard.

Families welcome. Coffee and snacks provided (at sites that allow food/drink). Teens are welcome to attend with an older relative. We will provide simple activities to keep young children occupied.