Our 21st century culture is often focused on urban, electronically-connected life. In “Time Drives the Flocks From Field to Fold”: Voices of Modern Shepherds,” Coastal Senior College instructor Ann Nesslage introduces students to writing by 21st century shepherds each Friday, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., beginning on April 10 in person at the Bremen Library.

Nesslage says, “The metaphor of the shepherd has always been a powerful one, rooted in images of the land, of protection, and the relationship of the shepherd and his flock, though even the poets of the pastoral idyll probably knew that the lives of real shepherds could be muddy, bloody, and heartbreaking as well as rewarding. This discussion class will focus on works by two 21st century shepherds. James Rebanks, living in the Fells of the Lake District in England, always knew that he wanted to be a shepherd. In his writing, he is a passionate advocate for his way of life as he reflects on nature, family, and the world around him. Helen Whybrow, living in the Green Mountains of Vermont, came to farming as an adult and a novice. Her account of being a shepherd captures the pain of early mistakes, the richness of becoming a part of her world, and the rhythms of life and family.

Nesslage is a graduate of Vassar, with a M.A. in British literature from Bryn Mawr. Ann retired from Choate Rosemary Hall, where she taught British studies and world literature. Ann enjoys creating new courses for CSC and she is fascinated by the connection of writers to their landscapes.

Go to coastalseniorcollege.org to learn more about Spring Term classes, membership and registration.