There is a Future

Writing Workshop

Workshop Title: Future

Step 1

Ask your students, “What challenges do LGBTQ+ youth face today? What measures, if any, have been taken to ameliorate these challenges?” Briefly discuss.

Step 2

Read “There is a Future” by Julian Guy. When you’re done, briefly discuss the poem. What is the “future” that the speaker envisions for LGBTQ+ youth?

Step 3

Say, “Take a few minutes to think of other marginalized groups that face similar challenges. Why? What would their “ideal future” look like? Jot down as many ideas as you can. Take a few minutes to brainstorm.”

Step 4

Have your students compose a poem similar in sentiment to “There is a Future” in which they write about their “ideal future” for a group that faces a set of challenges.

Step 5

When the students are done, have them share their responses with one another.

The full presentation may be found HERE.

Analytical Lesson

Area of Focus: Imagery

Step 1

If your students are not familiar with the concept of “imagery,” go through the introductory lesson.

Step 2

Start by showing the following commercial from GLAAD (formerly Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation). When you’re done, think about its intended purpose and audience. Whom is it directed toward? Why?

Step 3

Read “There is a Future” by Julian Guy. Then briefly discuss why or how the poem would work as a useful supplement or companion to the commercial from GLAAD.

Step 4

Have your students open the following document and go over the instructions with them. In this assignment, your students are going to create a visualization of Julian Guy’s future, as depicted in the poem through their imagery. Your students will discuss specific components of their illustration and discuss how they reflect words, lines, concepts, ideas, etc. from the poem. Then give your students time to work.

Step 5

When your students are done, have them share their illustrations with the rest of the class. Ask your class to interpret the piece on their own before the presenters offer their insights.

Step 6

If time permits, share the exemplar essay.