Theresa Okokon brings memory, storytelling to Living Writers Series
Creative nonfiction writer Theresa Okokon will join SUNY Oswego’s Living Writers Series on Monday, Nov. 9 with a 3 p.m. talk in the Marano Campus Center auditorium (room 132).
Her debut memoir “Who I Always Was” addresses memory, family stories, identity and the death of her father.
"I loved this memoir," said Living Writers Series organizer Sari Fordham. "I was swept up by Okokon's voice and read late into the night. Her use of language and structure were so inventive. I'm excited to share this book with students."
Okokon’s appearance is part of this year’s Living Writers Series theme of A/I, which explores the tension between Artistic Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence.
“I am currently reading ‘Do You Remember Being Born?’ by Sean Michaels and listening to ‘The Shell Game’ podcast — both of which explore openly inviting AI into our modern lives," said Okokon.
"I’m not saying I am ready to do that, but I do want to hear stories about people and characters willingly taking the plunge,” Okokon added. “In ‘The Shell Game,’ host Evan Ratliff shared a 1924 New York Times article about a store owner who was resistant to installing a telephone in their shop, but their eloquent monologue about why is eventually drowned out by the sound of a radio blaring across the street — in someone else’s shop. The moment has really stuck with me, and for now, feels emblematic of how I feel about AI.”
Okokon will discuss her memoir, her career and the role of memory. Her essays have appeared in midnight & indigo, ELLE, The Independen, and Boston.com. She is the co-host of “Stories from the Stage” and a Wisconsinite living in New England.
The event is free and open to the public. After the talk and Q&A, Okokon will sign books.
During Living Writers Series events, the community may park for free in lots E-10 and E-17 beyond Marano Campus Center (no pass required). Visit oswego.edu/parking for parking and campus maps.
For assistance in attending an event, contact Accessibility Resources at 315.312.3358 or [email protected].
This Living Writers Series event is presented by ARTSwego and the Department of English and Creative Writing.
— Submitted by the Living Writers Series