We will read aloud and discuss J.R.R. Tolkien’s dark yet delightful translation into modern English of the anonymous 60-page medieval poem “Sir Gawain & the Green Knight.” (Declining to read aloud is perfectly OK, too!) We will explore the poem’s structure, images, and wisdom. Next, we’ll read aloud the Grimm Brothers’ “Iron John,” comparing it with “Sir Gawain” as we go. Rick will also TELL several other ancient tales, interlacing humorous anecdotes and insights as he demonstrates the ancient art of storytelling.

Moderator: Rick Sowash is a classical composer, author and publisher of his own music, books and CDs. He has told, read, studied, and thought about “ancient tales” for decades. With degrees in Music Composition as well as Comparative Literature, he enlivens a multi-disciplined perspective with the instincts of an entertainer. He is a recipient of OLLI's Stephen Appel Award for excellence in teaching.