Courses and Workshops

Great works of literature grow in meaning with multiple readings and conversations among readers. One might even say they require it. In this course we will examine four works of fiction which are short in length but long in potential for rich discussion. Readings include Joyce’s The Dead, Melville’s Bartleby, Salinger’s Franny and Zooey, and Yu Hua’s To Live. These diverse works all raise the question of why we live.

Faculty Bio

Bill Smoot is a writer of fiction and essays. He received his Ph.D. in philosophy from Northwestern University. He teaches college classes in San Quentin Prison.

This is an In-Person Course

• Classes will meet in person at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center (Arts and Science Room) at 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette
• Limited to 40 members
• You must be a current OLLI @Berkeley member to register. Learn about membership, including our fee assistance program.

Schedule Highlights

• Course starts on Thursday, Oct. 17, and ends on Thursday, Nov. 7
• Classes meet for 4 weeks, 2 hours per session (10–noon)
• All course materials will remain available to view and enjoy through Dec. 31

Member Praise for Bill Smoot

This was absolutely one of my favorite OLLI courses. Bill is an engaging and intelligent instructor, well-versed in philosophy and film. The class discussions were excellent, and Bill was skilled at facilitating discussion. 

Everything about this class was a pleasure. Wonderful instructor!

I appreciated the philosophical underpinnings that Bill discussed as a way of broadening my understanding. And I really enjoyed his sense of humor and the way he engages with the class and fosters discussion.

Faculty Interview

• Read an interview with Bill Smoot from our archive.