Susan G
- Research Program Mentor
PhD at Boston University
Expertise
English and American literature (from 17thc on), development of the novel, contemporary short story; creative writing (creative nonfiction, memoir, travel writing, short story, poetry); American history (from 17thc on); history of architecture, industrial design, graphic design, advertising; social history of fashion and make-up; business of marketing communications and advertising
Bio
Reading, researching, and writing have always been my fundamental passions, but they have taken me in many different directions—academe, business, and creative pursuits. With a firm grounding in literature, history, and the history of art and design, I combine disciplines freely. And I seek to learn how the past influences the present and how society and culture reflect each other. I’ve taught and had a career in marketing communications, including running my own business. Today, I’m a working writer and teach creative writing in community settings. I’m a not-very-good actor and serve on the board of a local theater company. Travel, museum-going, swimming, kayaking, and my super-energetic labradoodle keep me centered and happy.Project ideas
The Clothes on Your Back
Clothing choices always send messages, intentional or not, about who we are or who we want to be. But now there's more to think about than being the first with the newest or showing that you don't really care. Environmental issues are becoming a part of how we decide what to buy (or rent) and wear. Should we choose fast fashion, slow fashion, or no fashion? Why does it matter? And who can afford what? This project will give you the chance to think about your clothes in a new way while researching the trends, the trade-offs, and the marketing and advertising that support them.
Big Questions? Ask Will (Shakespeare)!
People often say that Shakespeare is universal, that his writings transcend time and place. Judge for yourself by putting some big questions you have about life to the Bard. Find out if he can answer them in his plays and poetry. Whether he can or can't, you can write about what you found.