Writing the more-than-human

Description

As the climate crisis intensifies, it has never been clearer that our species needs to change the stories we tell ourselves about who we are and who we are becoming. Writers across all genres have an important role to play in this cultural shift. Our work can illuminate and challenge prevailing power structures, tell stories of resistance and solidarity, reveal humanity's profound interdependence with the more-than-human world, and more.

In this workshop, Lauren Fuge will guide you on writing the more-than-human in a time of crisis.

As the climate crisis intensifies, it has never been clearer that our species needs to change the stories we tell ourselves about who we are and who we are becoming. Writers across all genres have an important role to play in this cultural shift. Our work can illuminate and challenge prevailing power structures, tell stories of resistance and solidarity, reveal humanity's profound interdependence with the more-than-human world, and more.

Through writing exercises, instruction and discussion, this workshop will explore how writers are engaging with the overwhelming and multi-faceted problem of climate change, with a particular focus on why and how we should incorporate the more-than-human world into our work.

About the facilitator

Lauren is a writer who lives and works on Kaurna Country. She’s currently undertaking a PhD exploring storytelling and the climate crisis, as well as organising with grassroots community and climate groups. She previously worked as a science journalist and editor at Cosmos. She won the 2023 AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Awards (magazine category) and the 2022 UNSW Bragg Prize for Science Writing. Her book, Voyagers: Our Journey into the Anthropocene, was published by Text in 2024.

Hero image by Mikhail Pavstyuk, Unsplash

FAQs

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid (metered) street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

There is on-street disabled parking available on the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays.  The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include quiet study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.

Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.