Lyrics as Literature

Catalog description

This course explores the varied ways song lyrics function as literature, within historical and social contexts. It highlights the distinctive elements this genre draws from literary techniques and traditions, and also examines new and innovative forms used to convey artistic, cultural, and or political meanings. Selected texts may vary from semester to semester, depending on whether the focus is on the lyricist (example, Stephen Sondheim), the period (example, Harlem Renaissance), or the genre (example, American Folk song).This course may be used as an elective within the English major and minor, or as an elective for the BA, BBA, and BS degrees.Prerequisite: ENG 2150, or ENG/CMP/LTT 2800 or 2850 or departmental permission.