In this edition of the Great Minds series, we will read excerpts from I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou. In this autobiographical work, Angelou reflects on her childhood and her experiences with racism, trauma and personal growth. The book tells a powerful story about finding one’s voice and offers a meaningful starting point for reflection and conversation.
What are we reading?
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is an autobiographical work by Maya Angelou in which she recounts her childhood and youth. The book explores themes such as racism, identity, trauma and resilience. Angelou’s story shows how personal experiences are connected to broader social realities, and how language, literature, and community can play an important role in finding one’s voice.
What is the event?
In each session, we will read a few pages from this book. Don't worry, you don't need to prepare anything! We will select the pages and bring them with us. At 4 p.m., we will have a short walk-in in 3D with coffee, tea, and cookies. Once we are seated, we will briefly introduce the event, the author, and the text for that day. Then we will get to work and read and discuss the text together; what strikes you? What appeals to you, or doesn't? We will exchange ideas, and around 5:30 p.m. we will conclude the session.
Where is 3D?
You can find the entrance to 3D on the campus square, next to the Spar supermarket. It has 3D in lights in the window, and a big gnome on the steps that lead to the door.
Who is NEWConnective?
This event is organised by NEWConnective. NEWConnective organises events around life's bigger questions. We engage with themes like grief, spirituality, and much more. Find out more on our website (vu.nl/newconnective) or on our socials (@newconnective). If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out via email to newconnective@vu.nl.