Dissident Press and Zine Writing

Back by popular demand, the two-part Independent and Underground Publications class will be available second semester. You are not required to take both parts, yet it is recommended for full academic growth. Extensive reading and writing projects will be expected to earn credit. Fieldtrips to the Wisconsin Historical Society Archives and Library are part of each section. You will have access to Revolutionary War-era, Civil War, and contemporary broadsides and underground publications. Be ready to hold history in your hands. Be willing to become part of the current world of independent pubs. Our Little Voice Zine Library will also be reorganized and updated throughout the semester--with your help!

Basic Course Description -- Zine Writing Project

This course is designed to confront the frustration many of us have with how corporate entities and dominant cultural systems control the mainstream media and publishing industry. Zines are a form of independent publication that allows the marginalized voice to be heard. Throughout the quarter, we will: 1) read and critically review historical and contemporary examples of the zine form; 2) develop assessment and review skills through a class community standard; 3) explore and develop our own writing ideas and skills by creating complete individual zine publications; and 4) work as a class cooperative to plan, thematically organize, lay out, and produce a collective zine publication. Students must challenge themselves to be highly focused in class and motivated to read, write, and think creatively and cooperatively.