"When healing was required the sick ones lingered in the presence of great paintings, and sat in wards where masterpieces of healing composition played just below the level of hearing. Outdoor activity, sculpting, storytelling, poetry, and laughter were the most preferred forms of treatment." As Ben Okri describes in his book, Astonishing the Gods, there are a myriad of ways to harness the healing power of art. In this class, we'll explore poems and literary excerpts that speak to us about illness and healing in the body, and how it affects our perspectives of ourselves, others, and even how we experience time. We'll use prompts from both creative and expressive writing disciplines to generate new narratives for ourselves, engaging in the time-honored practice of creating art as a response to suffering.
Julie Sumner is a writer who has worked as a critical care nurse, transplant coordinator, and massage therapist. She recently completed her MFA in poetry at Seattle Pacific University. Her work has appeared in Fathom, The Englewood Review of Books, The Cresset, Juxtaprose, San Pedro River Review, Catalpa Magazine, and The Behemoth.
