The Common/Uncommon Language of Loss: The Processes of Writing about Grief

Like music, loss is a common language we all learn. The ways poets explore grief are as disparate as the ways it manifests in our lives. From Victoria Chang to Nick Cave, writers in every genre wade into the messiness of this work every day, creating unique processes that inform unique poems, stories, and songs. Participants will discuss the challenges of writing about grief, specific processes to overcome those challenges, and share brief examples of the work made possible along the way. While grief finds us all regardless of identity, it should be said that grief can also manifest in response to injustices perpetrated against us because of our identities. Grief is both universal and highly personal. It does not reveal itself only for the loss of a loved one, but for the loss of freedoms, the loss of a home, the loss of the means to do the thing one loves. The myriad ways grief is experienced reflect the myriad ways poets are able to explore it in their work. The moderator, Brad Richard, will begin by introducing the event. Each participant will then provide an overview of their respective project, their approach to process, and a brief example of their work. The event will conclude with an audience Q&A.