Cold Dark Joy: Learning to Thrive in Winter

I recently received a SSHRC for my MFA in Creative Writing thesis titled “Cold Dark Joy: Learning to Thrive in Winter.” This creative non-fiction book explores the possibility of thriving in cold, dark landscapes, particularly in circumpolar regions. To best research the possibility of cultural happiness and well-being during dark winters, I will study the phenomenon of ‘hygge’ — a Danish philosophy of creating both physical and metaphorical warmth and light in dark times, as well as the cultural representation of winter, coldness, and darkness in Denmark. Specifically, I will study Danish folklore, art, design, and landscape via museums, libraries, art galleries, and public as well as wild outdoor spaces, in order to write about the Danish interpretation and representation of winter. My objective is to experience the positive representations of Danish wintering in order to propose a more positive cultural experience of winter to my home country of Canada.

Faculty Supervisor:

Timothy Taylor

Student:

Partner:

Aalborg University

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Other; Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Information and Communications Technology

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: