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Reading a story in translation is an invitation to step into a different consciousness, shaped by distinct landscapes, histories, and cultural rhythms. This course will explore the art of the translated narrative, examining how world- class authors use fiction to tackle universal themes — time, mortality, justice, and the delicate threads of human connection. From the fjords of Norway to the Trans Siberian railway, we will navigate works that help define the global literary landscape, including masterpieces by two recent Nobel Prize laureates. Together we will explore what is gained in translation, and how these “foreign” voices help us better understand our own world. Guided by experienced facilitators, we will read and discuss two novels and four novellas in eight weeks. The class is highly participatory so come prepared to immerse yourself. Please read The Ferryman and His Wife for the first class. New remote course. Format includes discussion.

REQUIRED BOOKS: The Ferryman and His Wife, Frode Grytten, translated by Alison McCullough, ISBN 9781643757452; On the Calculation of Volume Book 1, Solvej Balle, translated by Barbara J. Haveland, ISBN 9780811237253; Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead, Olga Tokarczuk, translated by Antonia Lloyd-George, ISBN 9780525541332; Eastbound, Maylis De Kerangal, translated by Jessica Moore, ISBN 9781953861504; The White Book, Han Kang, translated by Deborah Smith, ISBN 978 0525573074; Kafka on the Shore, Haruki Marakami, translated by Philip Gabriel, ISBN 9781400079278

From its emergence amid rapid cultural change in the early 20th century, country music has resonated with people who feel left behind by a shifting world. A key genre of American roots music, it captures hardships of modern life while intentionally evoking emotional response. Whether facing troubled relationships, unemployment, homelessness, loneliness, or spiritual bereft, there is a country song for you. This course traces the history of country and American roots music through the stories and artistic developments of influential performers. Each session highlights key figures including the Carter Family, Bill Monroe, Hank Williams, and Dolly Parton.

We often only notice the global supply chain when it breaks. Yet, for millennia, the movement of goods has been the silent engine of civilization. In this course, we will track the evolution of trade from an executive’s perspective. From the sunken treasures of Bronze Age merchant ships to the high-tech intermodal systems of today, we will explore the vessels that carried the world’s wealth and the complex networks that keep our modern shelves stocked.

This is a general review of French language grammar with short readings. It is intended for folks with some knowledge of French who want to revisit and brush up! We will use an exercise workbook and a selection of short stories in French. New in-person course. Format includes lecture, discussion, and film.

REQUIRED BOOKS: French Grammar for Intermediate Level, Frederic Bibard, ISBN 978168489276; Short stories in French, Olly Richards and Richard Simcott, ISBN 9781473683440

Inspired by Natalie Goldberg’s seminal book, this course invites you into a practice of fearless, present-moment writing. Through writing prompts, and gentle guidance, you’ll learn to bypass self judgment and access your authentic voice. Each session includes in-class writing and supportive sharing, with optional assignments to deepen your practice between meetings. Open to all levels, this course emphasizes process over product, encouraging curiosity, spontaneity, and the joy of putting words on the page. New in-person course. Format includes lecture and hands-on learning.

SUGGESTED BOOK: Writing Down the Bones, Natalie Goldberg, ISBN 9781590307946

Why does a box of Kellogg’s corn flakes cost $5.00 when the farmer earns $0.05 per ear? Which is more eco-friendly: cow’s milk or almond milk? How do people view their role as “human capital?” This class explores the Triple Bottom Line: Profit, Planet, and People. Working via critical thinking, you’ll learn what commerce entails without politics, just insights that make you think, “Ah, I never thought of that.” You’ll gain tools to evaluate the environmental impact, worker conditions, and reasonable profits of products. Have questions? Send your suggestions at least a week before class to mld@engel.net. Repeat in-person course. Format includes lecture, discussion, film, and hands-on learning.