Group Category: English language and literature
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Reading the World
This group reads and discusses literature written or translated into English by authors from around the world. A timetable is made up from suggestions by the group. We read a full novel every month and in the interim fortnightly sessions we study and discuss poetry, short stories and drama. New members are always welcome. Read more
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Reading Shakespeare
It is always a delight to read Shakespeare. Many of the commonest phrases in our language today (such as ‘good riddance’ or ‘heart of gold’), were once freshly minted by the greatest mind that English literature has ever produced. And not only is the language spectacular, but there are some extremely good stories as well.… Read more
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Reading Classic Novels
Concentrating on classic novels in English, the choice of one book each month will be decided by members. Refreshments will be provided at 2.30, with time for a chat before discussion of the book. We meet on the first Wednesday of each month but if a majority of people are unavailable, then we will change… Read more
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Poetry Appreciation
We read and discuss poems by both established poets and members of the group. Each session will be focussed on a specific theme or poet. Those members who enjoy writing poetry are encouraged to share their poems with the group. We are not judgmental but will discuss the poem and give constructive feedback, if this… Read more
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Play Reading
We choose plays from a list provided by Barnet libraries – comedies, tragedies, new and old – and share the parts. There’s usually a new play each session, and we try to make sure that everyone has a chance to read! For this reason, numbers are limited to 12. No acting is involved and no… Read more
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Modern and Contemporary Literature
We are continuing our study of the past Poet Laureate, Ted Hughes, interspersed with the work of his contemporaries, other late 20C poets and current 21C poets, with occasional visits elsewhere, for example Shakespeare’s sonnets. All members are expected to read (aloud), explore and discuss the selected poems. Suggestions for the programmes or any new… Read more
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Cryptic Crossword – 2
If you enjoy solving crossword puzzles with like-minded people, come and join us. We work together on a cryptic puzzle and take one for homework. We meet on the last Wednesday of the month. New members of all abilities are welcome. Read more
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Cryptic Crossword – 1
Do you enjoy words? Do you puzzle over their various possible meanings and interpretations? In our group we work together on a cryptic puzzle and we take one away for homework. However, we are not a teaching group and some knowledge of solving cryptic crosswords is required. Read more
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Creative Writing Group
Have you ever dreamt of writing a novel, or perhaps short stories? Is this something you might have thought about often but rejected for a variety of reasons? Then contact Peter Cox to find out how this group might be able to persuade you that it might not just be a dream! Read more
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Book Group: Contemporary Novelists
The Mossy Well is a large pub where we can find a quiet corner, and coffee or other drinks can be bought. Parking is not easy but the pub is on several bus routes. We read modern authors (those who are still 'with us') and whose books are available in paperback. Examples of recent choices:… Read more