This talk is part of a larger project about contemporary US literature that asks a very old question about the relation between literature and politics. Professor Spahr suggests that turn of the century US literature is somewhat analogous to the earth’s ailing ecosystem, at risk because of multiple forces– economic changes, government interference, liberal foundations, and higher education–that bolster each other in ways that are expansive and self-reinforcing, like a Fibonacci sequence.

Spahr is Professor of English at Mills College.

The Center for Cultural Studies hosts a weekly Wednesday colloquium featuring work by faculty and visitors. The sessions consist of a 40-45 minute presentation followed by discussion. We gather at noon, with presentations beginning at 12:15 PM. Participants are encouraged to bring their own lunches; the Center provides coffee, tea, and cookies.