This class was a little more unconventional than what I’m used to for a college-level English class, however I really enjoyed taking it. Because it had a completely different focus (not on essays or tests, but rather discussion and critical thinking), I feel like I learned so much more. The ability to just talk ad nauseum about poetry and novels was so refreshing from my other classes that had more rigorous schedules.
The assignments were definitely a nice change of pace – especially the walks. Although it was difficult to make the time for them every other day, I’m glad that I did them. They really relaxed me and allowed me to take a step back from my normal routine. I really only wish it had been warmer!
I completely agree with Emerson when he said:
“So shall we come to look at the world with new eyes. It shall answer the endless inquiry of the intellect, — What is truth? and of the affections, — What is good? by yielding itself passive to the educated Will. ... Build, therefore, your own world. As fast as you conform your life to the pure idea in your mind, that will unfold its great proportions. A correspondent revolution in things will attend the influx of the spirit.”
It is important to look at things with a new perspective. Seeing things the same way all the time gets boring, and it locks you into assumptions. It is essential to never assume anything in life – after all, nothing is ever certain besides death and taxes, right?
This class opened my eyes in a similar way. I was stuck assuming what a class was supposed to teach.
As for what I’m going to take away from this class...I guess everything that I learned in terms of critical thinking and analysis. I didn’t read anything new or groundbreaking, but the discussions our class had made up for that. Hearing my classmates’ opinions really opened my eyes.
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