An author’s legacy refers to their body of work, particularly the pieces that are most compelling, significant and enduring. It encompasses their published books, songs, stories, poems as well as the effect those works have on the author’s culture, and the wonder they bring forth. A ‘raconteur’ is a person who excels at telling anecdotes. Stephen has been known to turn mundane experiences into hilarious stories and bring gravitas to the moment. He is a culture activist, and his contribution is his mastery of the delivery of well-crafted tales which serve us in navigating the troubles of our times.
You may have already heard of our Scriptorium. This new endeavour includes in-person curatorial meetings we’re calling Boreal Sessions. Two are planned for this year, both in August. One of the reasons that we are so thrilled about the Boreal Sessions is that we can host you here, in-person, in the great hall. We can eat together and wonder aloud.
What happens at a Boreal Session?
We will host 15 participants per session, and those who attend will gather in the great hall to listen to a recording of one of Stephen’s past events. We will be guided in editing that transcription, tracking themes, stories, etymologies and cultural references. We will follow tangents together whilst learning the craft of Stephen’s storytelling ways. This curation work is part dedication, part discipline, part necessity. Your input is instrumental, as these talks require this kind of preparation – this curation – before being brought into the online Scriptorium library, where the content will become accessible to Lineage Members. No previous transcribing skills are required.
One of the summer sessions is our Scriptorium Fundraiser. Learn more about that Private Founding Patron Session (Aug 13-17) here.
The other summer session (Aug 20-24) is open to all and we are now accepting applications for those who wish to participate in that Boreal Session in the great hall at Orphan Wisdom.
Boreal Session Logistics:
- Each session is limited to 15 participants
- Each session will take place over 5 days: 12-2pm on the first day and departing between 12-2pm on the last day
- The sessions are led by Khadija and other scholars of the Orphan Wisdom School.
- Toll:
$700 CAD for Canadian participants
$700 USD for International participant - Note: A $400 non-refundable deposit is needed to confirm your spot and there’ll be no work trades or scholarships for this event.
- Our hospitality includes home-cooked meals & accommodation at the Orphan Wisdom Guesthouse (shared rooms with bedding & bath towels)
- Depending on Mr. Jenkinson’s health, he may make an appearance during the session.
People used to ask “what will I get from coming to the Orphan Wisdom School?”. That depends on what people bring to their time together. Your questions, your particular puzzlement, your apprehension, and your wonder is in the mix. We encourage you to bring this same full hearted inquiry to The Boreal Sessions.
These Boreal Sessions depend on the generosity of Founding Patrons and Lineage Members to underwrite the hard costs of the administration for these sessions.
With Kindness and Excitement,
Nathalie Roy, Co-Founder of Orphan Wisdom
and
Khadija Striegel, Orphan Wisdom Manager
khadija@orphanwisdom.com
