Physics of Creative Writing

Catalog description

We will look at metaphors in physics--general and special relativity, the particle/wave duality, the uncertainty principle, singularities, black holes, super string theory, parallel universes, time travel, the God particle, etc.--and we'll practice using them in fiction and poetry. We'll also look at how culture translates quantum theory into a metaphor for reality. Readings will include physics books written for the laic person as well as fiction and poetry that use physics. Students will write essays on the metaphors and how they're used in literature. They will also write creative Etudes, responses to the material in the form of poems, stories, and short plays. Prerequisites: CRW 5364 , CRW 5321 , and CRW 5365 with a grade of "B" or better. Departmental approval also required Restricted to major of Creative Writing; Restricted to level of GR.