The Power Of Words A Transformative Language Arts Reader

This ground breaking book on the written, spoken and sung word for individual and social transformation emcompasses writing, storytelling, songs, drama, performance as a personal and collective tool for liberation. Whether through community storytelling for elders, individual journaling for self-discovery, or interdisciplinary theater for underserved youth, transformative language artists create greater opportunities for people to be heard, witnessed, and to become agents of change in their lives and communities.

Transformative Language Arts, an emerging field and profession, calls on us to use writing, storytelling, theater, music, expressive and other arts for social change, personal growth, and culture shift. In this landmark anthology, Transformative Language Artists share their stories, scholarship and practices for a more just and peaceful world, from a Hmong storyteller and spoken word artist weaving traditions with contemporary immigrant challenges in Philadelphia, to a playwright raising awareness of AIDS/HIV prevention. Read the stories, consider the questions raised, and find inspiration and tools in using words as a vehicle for transformation through essays on the challenge of dominant stories, public housing women writing for their lives, histories and communities at the margins, singing as political action, the convergence of theology and poetics, women's self-leadership, embodied writing, and healing the self, others, and nature through TLA. The anthology also includes “snapshots,” short features on transformative language artists who make their livings and lives working with people of all ages and backgrounds to speak their truths, and change their communities.

In 1981, the author first published the groundbreaking, classic text, The Arts and Psychotherapy. This book is a rework of the original text. This new work integrates theory with practice, drawing upon concrete examples and case studies. It details the emergence of a multidisciplinary approach to working with people everywhere and offers glimpses into clinical work with children, adolescents and adults.

Expressive writing is life-based writing that focuses on authentic expression of lived experience, with resultant insight, growth and skill-building. Research shows that expressive writing can help in the development of emotional intelligence, better choice-making, and healthy coping skills. In this remarkable collection, 11 experts from education and community service join to offer compelling guidance on applied practice. You’ll discover a model for a poetry group for youth at risk; how to help students develop inner resources through metaphor; a “photovoice” project to help at-risk students stay in school; how storytelling develops emotional intelligence in primary school children; a method that helps teachers become more confident writers; how expressive writing can help teachers manage stress and avoid burn-out; expressive writing as change agent for communities; the benefits and limitations of writing programs in prisons and jails; hip-hop as “the pen of the people”; finding a writing group; writing with others; the ethics and standards of practice for expressive writing in the classroom and community; guidance for all levels of learners: Primary, teens, college-age, adult; professional development, personal growth. Whether you are a teacher, a counselor, a facilitator, or a writer you’ll find this volume an invaluable and innovative resource for expressive writing in the classroom and in the community.

If creativity is the highest expression of the life impulse, why do creative individuals who have made lasting contributions to the arts and sciences so often end their lives? M.F. Alvarez addresses this central paradox by exploring the inner lives and works of eleven creative visionaries who succumbed to suicide. Through a series of case studies, Alvarez shows that creativity and suicide are both attempts to authenticate and resolve personal catastrophes that have called into question the most basic conditions of human existence.

Step into a world where the power of words becomes your greatest ally in shaping your destiny. In "Your Words Are Your Destiny," Khomotjo Peter Mashita takes you on an exhilarating journey of self-discovery and empowerment, revealing the remarkable influence your words have on every aspect of your life. Are you ready to harness the extraordinary potential of your own voice? This captivating book will guide you on a transformative path, unveiling the secrets to unlocking your true potential through the art of intentional language. Explore the profound connection between the words you speak and the reality you experience. Discover how your self-talk can either propel you towards success or hold you back from achieving your dreams. Khomotjo Peter Mashita, renowned personal development expert, shares powerful techniques and practical exercises that will empower you to rewrite your story, transforming limiting narratives into empowering beliefs. Through inspiring stories and profound insights, you'll learn how to unleash the creative force within you by using affirmations, declarations, and visualization techniques. Gain a deeper understanding of the vibrational language that shapes your experiences, and discover how to align your words with your desires to manifest a future filled with abundance and fulfillment. But it doesn't stop there. "Your Words Are Your Destiny" takes you on a journey beyond personal transformation and into the realm of impact and influence. Learn how your words can inspire and motivate others, creating a ripple effect of positive change in your relationships, career, and community. With Khomotjo Peter Mashita as your guide, you'll dive into the art of persuasive communication and leadership, mastering the skills to captivate hearts and minds with your words. Whether you're a seasoned speaker or just finding your voice, this book provides invaluable insights and practical strategies to enhance your communication prowess and leave a lasting impact. Join the ranks of those who have discovered the transformative power of their words and unlocked their true potential. "Your Words Are Your Destiny" is an invitation to step into a future filled with purpose, abundance, and joy. Embrace the power within you, and let your words become the driving force that shapes your destiny. The time has come to embark on a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and profound impact. Embrace the wisdom shared by Khomotjo Peter Mashita and become the author of your own destiny. Your words have the power to shape your future. Are you ready to wield that power?

Give students the power of language by using the inspiring ideas in this very readable book.