“Mother Tongues” examines the function of linguistic, cross-cultural, and intermedia translation in Dictee and Theresa Hak Kyung Cha’s larger body of work. We will engage in close readings to examine Cha’s poetic deconstructions of language, filmic writing, and the neocolonial geopolitics of Korea. Together, we will reflect on the role of translation in contemporary literature, community organizing, race, and authorship. This seminar will consider speech as it travels between mouths, nation states, mediums, and scripts, proliferating beyond borders.

This seminar is led by Laura Hyun Yi Kang, Youna Kwak, and Sujin Lee, and includes opening reflections by guests, followed by a group discussion and writing exercise. Suggested readings will be shared in advance.