creative writing school
Module 3: Tension & Release
In today's geopolitical landscape, conflicts and wars continue to shape the world around us, leaving lasting impacts on societies, cultures, and individuals. From ongoing conflicts in regions like the Middle East to tensions between global powers, the specter of war looms large, impacting communities near and far. In the face of such turmoil, writers have long played a crucial role in resisting the destructive forces of war through their words and narratives.
As we delve into the exploration of war through the lens of creative writing, we draw inspiration from the powerful exhibition "Topography of War," which challenges conventional representations of conflict. Curated by Jean-Yves Jouannais and Diane Dufour, this exhibition offers a thought-provoking perspective on war by focusing on the landscapes and built environments associated with conflict, rather than the traditional elements of battle.
As we embark on this creative writing journey, let us remember that our words have the power to transcend borders, unite communities, and foster empathy in the face of adversity. Through the exploration of war in creative writing, we not only bear witness to the struggles of the past and present but also envision a future where peace prevails. Join us as we harness the transformative potential of storytelling to confront the realities of war, challenge dominant narratives, and imagine paths towards reconciliation and healing.
As we delve into the exploration of war through the lens of creative writing, we draw inspiration from the powerful exhibition "Topography of War," which challenges conventional representations of conflict. Curated by Jean-Yves Jouannais and Diane Dufour, this exhibition offers a thought-provoking perspective on war by focusing on the landscapes and built environments associated with conflict, rather than the traditional elements of battle.
As we embark on this creative writing journey, let us remember that our words have the power to transcend borders, unite communities, and foster empathy in the face of adversity. Through the exploration of war in creative writing, we not only bear witness to the struggles of the past and present but also envision a future where peace prevails. Join us as we harness the transformative potential of storytelling to confront the realities of war, challenge dominant narratives, and imagine paths towards reconciliation and healing.
inspirations
Jananne Al-Ani, Shadow Sites II, 2011 / "Topography of War" Exhibition
The exhibition "Topography of War," curated by Jean-Yves Jouannais and Diane Dufour and showcased at LE BAL, Paris, from September 17 to December 18, 2011, challenges conventional representations of war. Instead of focusing on the traditional elements of battle—confrontation, bodies, injury, and death—the photographs and videos in this exhibition present war through a different lens. They depict war in a disembodied manner, emphasizing the landscapes, positions, and built environments associated with conflict.
These artworks serve as topographical essays, offering viewers a unique perspective on war through its geography. By deliberately excluding human figures and focusing solely on the physical spaces affected by conflict, the exhibition prompts audiences to consider the broader implications of war beyond its immediate human toll.
The decision to emphasize the terrain of war reflects not only changes in military strategy but also the challenges faced by photographers and videographers operating in conflict zones. In an era of increased media censorship and the proliferation of long-range weaponry, documenting the human cost of war has become increasingly difficult. As a result, the territory of war has taken on a more abstract and ideological significance, becoming a concept that is challenging to represent visually.
"Topography of War" invites viewers to contemplate the evolving nature of warfare and its impact on both the physical landscape and the human experience. By presenting war in a new light, the exhibition prompts us to question our preconceived notions of conflict and consider alternative ways of understanding its complexities.
These artworks serve as topographical essays, offering viewers a unique perspective on war through its geography. By deliberately excluding human figures and focusing solely on the physical spaces affected by conflict, the exhibition prompts audiences to consider the broader implications of war beyond its immediate human toll.
The decision to emphasize the terrain of war reflects not only changes in military strategy but also the challenges faced by photographers and videographers operating in conflict zones. In an era of increased media censorship and the proliferation of long-range weaponry, documenting the human cost of war has become increasingly difficult. As a result, the territory of war has taken on a more abstract and ideological significance, becoming a concept that is challenging to represent visually.
"Topography of War" invites viewers to contemplate the evolving nature of warfare and its impact on both the physical landscape and the human experience. By presenting war in a new light, the exhibition prompts us to question our preconceived notions of conflict and consider alternative ways of understanding its complexities.
Firelei Báez, "The vast ocean of all possibilities", 2023
In "the vast ocean of all possibilities," Firelei Báez presents a visually complex and immersive work that challenges conventional narratives of conflict and violence. Rather than depicting war as a destructive force that leaves only devastation in its wake, Báez creates a vibrant and dynamic tapestry of interconnected narratives, symbols, and histories. By weaving together elements of mythology, folklore, and personal memory, Báez celebrates the power of imagination and storytelling as a means of survival and resistance.
Through her artwork, Báez offers a counterpoint to dominant narratives of war that often focus solely on violence and destruction. Instead, she invites viewers to consider the ways in which communities affected by conflict draw upon their cultural heritage and collective memory to navigate and endure the challenges they face. In doing so, Báez challenges us to reevaluate our understanding of war and its impact on individuals and communities, offering a more nuanced and compassionate perspective that emphasizes resilience, solidarity, and the transformative power of art.
Through her artwork, Báez offers a counterpoint to dominant narratives of war that often focus solely on violence and destruction. Instead, she invites viewers to consider the ways in which communities affected by conflict draw upon their cultural heritage and collective memory to navigate and endure the challenges they face. In doing so, Báez challenges us to reevaluate our understanding of war and its impact on individuals and communities, offering a more nuanced and compassionate perspective that emphasizes resilience, solidarity, and the transformative power of art.
creative exercise
I. IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE
As you step out into the city, let your eyes roam freely, seeking out the silent witnesses of history etched into the urban landscape. Look beyond the bustling crowds and modern facades, and search for the hidden scars of history etched into the urban landscape. Seek out the remnants of war—bullet-riddled walls, bombed-out buildings, memorial plaques—and let these tangible relics of the past transport you to another time. Allow yourself to be drawn into the layers of history woven into the fabric of the city, as you hunt for the marks of brutality and war that still echo through time.
II. EXPRESSIVE WRITING
In your expressive writing, delve into the depths of your emotions and reflections inspired by your immersive experience and the principles of the "Topography of War" exhibition. Focus on describing war in a disembodied manner, distancing yourself from the visceral imagery of conflict and instead honing in on the geographic, architectural, and symbolic dimensions of warfare. Explore the ways in which war has left its mark on the landscape of your city, shaping its contours and permeating its spaces with a sense of history and loss. Reflect on the juxtaposition of everyday life against the backdrop of past trauma, and contemplate the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Optional: If you want to delve deeper:
III. TEXT ART CREATION
Return home with your impressions fresh in your mind and translate them into a unique form of expression: the subjective map of war in your city. Armed with a large sheet of paper and a pen, sketch out the contours of your cityscape not with lines and shapes, but with words and phrases that capture the essence of its wartime history. Let your creativity flow freely as you craft a literary cartography that reflects your personal perspective on the scars of war etched into the fabric of your city.
As you step out into the city, let your eyes roam freely, seeking out the silent witnesses of history etched into the urban landscape. Look beyond the bustling crowds and modern facades, and search for the hidden scars of history etched into the urban landscape. Seek out the remnants of war—bullet-riddled walls, bombed-out buildings, memorial plaques—and let these tangible relics of the past transport you to another time. Allow yourself to be drawn into the layers of history woven into the fabric of the city, as you hunt for the marks of brutality and war that still echo through time.
II. EXPRESSIVE WRITING
In your expressive writing, delve into the depths of your emotions and reflections inspired by your immersive experience and the principles of the "Topography of War" exhibition. Focus on describing war in a disembodied manner, distancing yourself from the visceral imagery of conflict and instead honing in on the geographic, architectural, and symbolic dimensions of warfare. Explore the ways in which war has left its mark on the landscape of your city, shaping its contours and permeating its spaces with a sense of history and loss. Reflect on the juxtaposition of everyday life against the backdrop of past trauma, and contemplate the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Optional: If you want to delve deeper:
III. TEXT ART CREATION
Return home with your impressions fresh in your mind and translate them into a unique form of expression: the subjective map of war in your city. Armed with a large sheet of paper and a pen, sketch out the contours of your cityscape not with lines and shapes, but with words and phrases that capture the essence of its wartime history. Let your creativity flow freely as you craft a literary cartography that reflects your personal perspective on the scars of war etched into the fabric of your city.
stay motivated!
As we draw this creative writing journey on war to a close, take a moment to breathe deeply and center yourself. Reflect on the words you've written and the emotions they've stirred within you. War is undoubtedly a challenging and complex topic, one that can evoke strong emotions and stir the depths of our souls. But in the midst of darkness, there is always light to be found. Allow yourself to find peace in the act of creation, in the power of your words to illuminate the shadows and give voice to the silenced. Remember that through writing, we have the ability to transcend the chaos of conflict and find moments of serenity and solace. So, as you continue on your creative journey, may you find strength in your words and peace in your heart. Keep writing, keep creating, and may your journey be filled with light and love.
Photo: Nicholas Calcott / "Topography of War" Exhibition