New writing group focuses on veterans

Beginning this month, English Professor Robin Thompson will be starting a new six-week writing workshop for veterans.  The Veterans Writing Group will allow veterans to learn the techniques of narrative writing and poetry.  Once enough participants are signed up, the first workshop will take place on the campus of Governors State University in March.

Professor Thompson said her love for narrative writing inspired her to create this workshop.  Thompson believes that the veteran population can be underserved in society, and for her, "It's just a way to give back."

Thompson's 17-year teaching career certainly gives her the experience she needs to teach veterans narrative writing.  She believes the community could benefit from the writing of veterans, and suggested that one day the program could be expanded to their families.

Professor Thompson thinks that after the initial six-week workshop is finished the program should continue.

In addition to the veterans who will enroll in this free workshop, former students of hers have expressed interest in the workshop.  As for writing workshops that are not for veterans, one would simply have to go to the development office to find out about the workshops that are currently being offered.   

Being the mother of a son in the armed forces, Thompson has faith that her son would have a lot to say after his tour of duty is over.  She also believes this workshop would be beneficial to families and loved ones who would like to share their stories.

According to literature promoting the new group, veteran who join the Veterans Writing Group will receive help in taking ownership of their experiences, bridging the cultural divide between military and civilian life, learning new skills and gaining fresh confidence, and connecting with other vets in a small, supportive group environment

As Thomas G. Bowie, Jr. so eloquently stated in Memory and Meaning: The Need for   Narrative, "...personal narrative invites memory to coalesce into meaning, inviting both the storyteller and his or her audience to 'get the war straight' in our minds."

For more information, contact Robin Thompson at (708) 534-4581 or rthompson@govst.edu.