Hargrove Sets to Guide Literary Discussions at Starkville Public Library

The Starkville Public Library is all set to host a series of exciting and enlightening literature discussions from September 3, 2024 to October 1, 2024. These engaging sessions will take place at 4 p.m. on the prescribed dates and will be steered by Dr. Nancy D. Hargrove, a leading literary figure and scholar.

Enriching Literary Journey

The first discussion, slated for September 3, 2024, will center on an intriguing piece by Charlotte Perkins Gilman – the influential short story ‘The Yellow Wallpaper’. This notable work outlines the mental deterioration of its central character, offering ample room for exploratory conversation.

The following session on September 10, on the other hand, will delve into ‘The Bell Jar’, the sole novel by Sylvia Plath. The discussion promises to provide captivating analysis as it follows the semi-autobiographical journey of Esther Greenwood’s personal decline and subsequent recovery.

Focused Sessions on Diverse Literature

The following sessions on September 17 and 24 will offer participants a unique chance to discuss Marsha Norman’s aptly-titled ‘Night, Mother’. Marked for its controversial and challenging subject, the drama is expected to spark spirited discourse among the participants. The grand finale session, on October 1, will be a review of poems suggested by the group itself.

Prospective participants are encouraged to procure their own copies of the works to be discussed. The short story, ‘The Yellow Wallpaper’ is easily available on Amazon.com in paperback for $2.25. The Modern Classics edition of Sylvia Plath’s ‘The Bell Jar’ can also be ordered from Amazon. ‘Night, Mother’ by Marsha Norman, published by Mermaid Dramabook can be ordered from Amazon. Poems, once decided by the participants, can be easily fetched online and printed out for convenience.

About Dr. Nancy D. Hargrove

Dr. Hargrove, a William L. Giles Distinguished Professor Emerita of English at Mississippi State University, has been leading these discussions since her retirement in 2008. With multiple publications on T.S. Eliot and Sylvia Plath among others, Dr. Hargrove is well-versed in a wide range of American and British literary works. Her illustrious career is marked by several honors and accolades including five Fulbright grants, the Mississippi Professor of the Year Award, and the John Grisham Master Teacher Award.

Invitation to Meaningful Dialogues

These sessions, designed to be informal yet stimulating, are open to all and are free of charge. Dr. Hargrove encourages participants to read each work ahead of the session and arrive with questions and comments to support active participation. “Each work provides compelling insights into the human experience with numerous subjects for discussion. Come join us for a look at a variety of remarkable literary works by distinguished authors,” Dr. Hargrove said.