Is poetry, which has some reputation for being incomprehensible or even deliberately obscure, worth the trouble? If you have never read a poem that has deeply moved you or, as Emily Dickinson described it, "make you feel as if the top of your head is coming off," you may not really have experienced poetry. Poetry challenges us because it uses language differently than prose and strives to recreate experiences and emotions. Participants will learn some tactics for decoding poetry and, hopefully walk away with at least one poem that literally send chills up your spine. We will read a variety of poems from a variety of eras and traditions. Although this is a continuing class, no prior class is required.

Facilitator: Carl Hays

In a world of fake news, conspiracy theories, and post-truth, psychologist Steven Pinker helps us make sense of making sense. Join our discussion of Pinker's new book about rationality and hear him explain how our brain is not a basket of delusions and why being rational is essential but scarce.

Rationality: What It Is, Why It Seems Scarce, Why It Matters by Steven Pinker NOT REQUIRED