In recent years, food
writing has exploded from recipes, blogs and food essays to biographies,
autobiographies and scholarly texts.
Writers have brought their own unique vision to discussions of food,
some exploring the pleasure of eating and others discussing the moral and
ethical issues behind the food we consume.
Food writing can illuminate questions of gender, class distinctions and
ethnic diversity, thus provoking questions about traditions and authenticity.
While students will study and compose various topics and forms, writing in a
self-reflexive mode will be a component of each narrative. Through research,
discussion and writing, we will create a picture of a place in time that will
aid in our understanding of the world within our community. Specific attention
will be given to the cultural identity and culinary variety of Hawai`i’s food
community. A sense of curiosity and
enthusiasm for understanding our food culture are essential for the successful
student in this course.
This is a writing
course with a specific focus. Students
will be expected to write and revise their writing, working towards a body of
work on food and culture. Required reading not listed below will be available
to download and print via Laulima.
Course Requirements
- Attendance and participation
- Four 4-page papers and drafts
- Informal writing assignments
- Peer-editing/workshopping
- Final Portfolio
Required Texts (available at Revolution Books, 2626 King Street)
- Michael Pollan, The Omnivores Dilemma
- Holly Hughes, The Best Food Writing 2013
- Eric Schlosser, Fast Food Nation
- Natalie Goldberg, Writing Down the Bones
- Andrea Lunsford, Easy
Writer