17th Annual Student Research Conference
Language & Literature
Peanuts and Raisins: Scenes from an Ozark Childhood
Eric M. Tumminia♦
Prof. Mark Spitzer, Faculty Mentor
My presentation will consist of a reading of highly descriptive scenes from my memories of growing up in the Huggins/Plato area of Texas County, Missouri. These short pieces examine the relationship between place and identity, the beauties of the Ozark landscape (particularly the rivers and streams), rural Ozark culture, class and poverty, and the negotiation of personal consciousness. The audience will come with me as I float down brisk, clear creeks, cruise gravel roads, and wander slowly through dense, humid forests thoughtful and alone.
Keywords: Ozarks, Memory, Creative, Nonfiction, Rural, Mustard, Toboggan, snowglobe
Topic(s):English
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 34-5
Location: VH 1304
Time: 3:15