What compels an author to write in a language other than the one they were born into? And what happens when they do?
The practice of writing in a language other than one’s mother tongue—also known as exophonic writing—is not new. Writers have chosen to write in a second language for many reasons, from creative fulfillment to political resistance. Yet as communities around the world become increasingly multilingual, more and more examples emerge. In this discussion-based literature course, we will explore the concept of linguistic identity as it relates to creative writers. We will ask ourselves: What does it mean to have a mother tongue, and how do exophonic practices complicate one’s relationship to it? How can finding a literary voice in another language affect one’s sense of cultural and national identity, both for authors and their audiences? How does exophonic writing straddle the boundary between the personal and the political? We will read and discuss both fiction and non-fiction books by authors who choose to write in another tongue, including Yoko Tawada, Jhumpa Lahiri and Aleksandra Lun.Â
Required texts:
Participants must obtain a copy of the required texts at the bookstore or library of their choice.
Standard Tuition: $160.00
New Participant Tuition: $115.00
Day:Â Tuesdays
Time:Â 6:15 - 8:15 PM
Location:Â 3405 Atwater Ave
Course leaders:Â Valerie Amyot, Paul Lafontaine, Matthew Rettino
Please note that in the case of extenuating circumstances (e.g. a snowstorm) an in-person course may be temporarily held on Zoom.
First session:Â January 12 2027
Course length:Â 6 weeks
Degree credit:Â 1.5
Maximum number of participants: 18
Please note that the Thomas More Institute does not allow participants to audit courses for free.
About the Thomas More Institute: The Thomas More Institute has been providing adults with stimulating lifelong learning opportunities in Montreal since 1945. A secular and non-profit academic institution, TMI offers an ever-evolving choice of university-level courses in the liberal arts, including discussion-based courses, lecture-style courses, writing workshops, and more. Our courses are held in small groups, offering an alternative learning environment to that of traditional university courses. You can take individual courses that interest you, or work toward a structured bachelor of arts degree or comprehensive certificate that involve additional coursework. Share Your Curiosity at TMI!
About course fees: all prices displayed include Tuition and the Administrative fee.
Leaders of another course, and anyone else wishing to register by phone, should call (514) 935-9585 to register.
All course participants registering should read and abide by the Thomas More Institute Code of Conduct.
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