by Gryphon Williams
In my Intro to Literary Studies class with Professor Laurie McMillan, the first story we read was “Antlers” by Rick Bass. We spent a few weeks analyzing the themes of the text, posting to the discussion board, and drafting essays to explore the deeper meaning behind the story. Then, on Halloween, Professor McMillan walked in with a gleam in her eye.
She gradually revealed that she was carrying bags of construction paper, scissors, glue, you name it. She scanned the room, stood at the front and emphatically said: “Today, we’re making antlers.”
There we were, a bunch of 20-something-year-old students, elbow deep in construction paper and outlines of antlers and I can say, without a doubt, that was one of the most fun classes I’ve ever had in my college experience. During the weeks of stress and potential transition in the middle of a semester, it was a calming experience that I cherished.
We also managed to catch a super cool picture that our Professor sent to Rick Bass, the author of “Antlers,” on Twitter!
Shape Your Story 