2828 - Pilgrimage to the Sacred Feminine
Course Description
Embark on a virtual pilgrimage to meet the different manifestations of the Female Buddha Guan Yin and Tara. The outward journey of pilgrimage parallels an inner journey of creativity, transformation and sanctuary. Drawing from works of fiction, memoir and poetry, we will also read of dakinis or sky-dancers; Padma Lhamo and Kali; Athena, Isis and Sekhmet; the blue-robed Virgin and the Black Madonna; the first great female philosopher of the western world, Hypatia. Through careful reading, learn the toolbox of the writer's craft: description, dialogue, rhythm and sound. Take your writing further by drawing on the processes of meditation, dream work, music, journaling and visualization.
Learning Outcomes
- Learn the context, form and structure of pilgrimage through the exploration of the manifestations of Guan Yin and Tara, and our study of other secular and faith traditions.
- Engage in meditation practices associated with the different forms of the sacred feminine.
- Discover ways in which the sacred feminine in philosophy, contemporary life, and spiritual traditions can help you uncover courage and wisdom within yourself.
- Engage in generative writing exercises to connect to your authentic voice and story.
- Engage in a writing workshop and gain helpful feedback from your peers and your instructor.
- Explore the beginning (or continuation) of your short story, personal essay, novel, memoir, or poetry collection.
Notes
In addition to online content, we will read the following:
Sue Monk Kidd and Ann Kidd Taylor, Traveling with Pomegranates: A Mother and Daughter Journey to the Sacred Places of Greece, Turkey, and France. Penguin, 2009.
This course may be applied towards the SCS Certificate(s) in
- Creative Writing : Elective Courses