Life Writing: Stories Worth Telling in Prose and Poetry
Lifelong Learning | FULL (Membership Required)
Everyone carries a lifetime of stories-moments of joy, change, loss and reinvention. This course welcomes participants to explore and express experiences through gentle guided writing in both poetry and short prose. No prior writing experience is required. Through simple prompts, shared readings and supportive discussion, participants will discover ways to shape memories, observations and reflections into written language. Emphasis will be on honoring one’s unique voice. Participants may choose to share their work; however, sharing is optional.
Gemma Stemley
Gemma Stemley is a writer, poet, retired College administrator, and musician, having played the flute for several years professionally. She emigrated to the US more than twenty-five years ago, having grown up on the island of Trinidad. As a poet and musician whose art reflects a deep connection to the land of her upbringing, she epitomizes the true Caribbean spirit. Her poetry explores the intimate emotions of having to call two places home. Gemma has performed on several college campuses, where she was hired to play her Caribbean music. She has also made appearances to read her poetry.
Gemma has a BS from the University of the West Indies and a Master’s degree from Clarion University in Library and Information Science. She is ABD (All But Dissertation) having completed coursework for her PhD in Literature and Criticism from Indiana University of Pa. She taught classes at both Clarion University and Cheyney University in International Women’s literature while working as an administrator on both these campuses. Being an avid reader in world literature she is especially influenced by Caribbean, African, Indian and African American writers. She loves the poetry of Gwendolyn Brooks, Derek Walcott and Rabindranath Tagore.
Gemma has published two books, one of which received an award from the National Indie Book of Excellence. Finding Home: A Sentimental Journey, is an exploration of the meaning of home. Her most recent book- Sharing Spaces: Poems of the Heart is a collection of her poems.