Date of Award

Spring 6-1-2024

Document Type

Thesis (Master's)

Department or Program

Master of Arts in Liberal Studies

First Advisor

Rena Mosteirin

Second Advisor

Dr. Daniel Lucey

Third Advisor

William F. Phillips

Abstract

The chasm between past and present is a constant reminder of the perilous journey one takes through the fissures of memory. While on this expedition the forms surrounding you, the memories themselves, are a constantly changing landscape that make navigation a difficult and dangerous task. Is a memory a recall or a remembrance, truth, or construction? Are all memories as they happened or are we the “rememberer,” the architect of their composition? This dilemma has been the impetus of my academic pursuits and creative endeavors. For Memoriam I have chosen an event in my past, a wildfire, as the catalyst to delve into the relationship I have with my ancestors many of whom were murdered using the weapon of flame. As their presence is something I only feel, memory is the language through which we are able to communicate and connect. Using poetic essays, short form poetry, and a screenplay, I weave my experiences with those of my ancestors, activating history and branding our bound fates. Through self- examination and observation, the conclusion of this thesis is that I am both charged with the responsibility and duty of remembering the “truth” whilst also serving as the creator of my own version of the memory. I am an artist and memories are my medium.

Comments

Memoriam begins with a weaving of poetic essays and short form poetry that thread the point of view of experience. The world of poetry involves rhythm and music, allowing me the ability to dance with words through the territory of memory. As these works explore survival and demise, it is integral for these pieces to consider perspective, as life and death are not solitary acts. After this selection of poetics, Memoriam shifts to the form of a feature film screenplay Guf (Yiddish for body or flesh). As a visual medium, film is an invaluable way to show rather than tell a story. The physical performance of a movie often finds value in the words not spoken, and meaning resting just below the surface of exacting dialogue. It is a method of writing that economizes language to bare necessity in juxtaposition to the abundance of poetry. The attributes within these respective genres are effective devices to approach storytelling from many angles.

Memoriam is a multifaceted collection that traverses creative writing forms in search of the garden of remembrance.

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