Austin Chapter
Reader's Guide
March 1999
Dakota: A Spiritual Geography
by Kathleen Norris
- This book brings to mind Barbara Scot's PRAIRIE REUNION; in fact Kathleen Norris writes a recommendation for Scot's book. In what ways are these books alike? In what ways do they differ? Picture these two authors meeting for coffee to talk about writing. What do you think would be some of their conversation?
- The structure for DAKOTA consists of chapters of some length interrupted by the "weather reports" and brief essays. What is the purpose of this structure? Did you like it? Why or why not?
- Norris and her husband expected to be in Dakota for just a few years. But she says after being there 20 years that "...the Plains have been essential not only for my growth as a writer, they have formed me spiritually. I would even say they have made me a human being." What are the geographical realities of Dakota that you think brought her to this point?
- In the chapter "Can You Tell the Truth in a Small Town?", she shares some insights about telling the truth. Do you think she has told us truths about herself? What are some? Do you think she has held some back?
- What significance do you find in the chapter entitled "Getting to Hope"?
- What are some of the lessons that those in the Benedictine monastaries could teach the small towns?
- Here's a little test?! Identify the author of the following quote:
"Having a sense of place is a very affiming and steadying influence on a writer. If you learn to love one place, you are more aware of other places, can imbue your writing with that recognition of the importance of place."
- Norris is profoundly influenced by several women in her family. Who are they and what did she learn from them?