Discussion Circle Conversations
Thu., Feb. 13–Sat., Feb. 15
3:30–4:30 p.m.

$0.00

CONVERSATION | Discussion Circles

Description

Participate in engaging and robust discussions on some of the most relevant topics of our time as they relate to literature. Explore themes such as the ethics of AI in literature, cultural appropriation, and more. These sessions are open to all attendees who wish to engage in thoughtful and provocative conversations. Join us to share your perspectives and learn from others in a welcoming and intellectually stimulating environment.

DISCUSSION CIRCLE TOPICS

Machine Minds and Moral Boundaries in Literature | Thursday, February 13 | 3:30–4:30 p.m.

Explore the ethical challenges and possibilities posed by artificial intelligence in literature. This discussion invites participants to consider how AI is influencing creativity, authorship, and moral accountability in storytelling.

Moderated by Alex Morrison, a spoken word artist, poet, and former Responsible Artificial Intelligence Ethicist for Amazon Web Services.

Respect, Representation, and the Line Between Inspiration and Appropriation | Friday, February 14 | 3:30–4:30 p.m.

Where is the line between respectful cultural inspiration and cultural appropriation? This discussion circle will provide an inclusive space to explore the complex dynamics of representation in literature and the responsibilities of writers to portray cultures authentically.

Moderated by Ellen Morrison, a mental health therapist and artist who believes in the power of stories to heal and inspire. Co-facilitated by Alex Morrison.

Publishing in Transition: New Models, New Markets, New Mindsets | Saturday, February 15 | 3:30–4:30 p.m.

As the publishing world evolves, what new opportunities and challenges are emerging for authors, publishers, and readers? This discussion will cover shifts in publishing models, the rise of independent platforms, as well as changing author opportunities and reader expectations.

Moderated by Danielle Trussoni, bestselling author of seven books; former Chair Jurist for the Pulitzer Prize in Fiction and New York Times Book Review columnist.

Additional information

Topic

1 Machine Minds and Moral Boundaries in Literature | Thursday, February 13 | 3:30–4:30 p.m., 2 Respect, Representation, and the Line Between Inspiration and Appropriation | Friday, February 14 | 3:30–4:30 p.m., 3 Publishing in Transition: New Models, New Markets, New Mindsets | Saturday, February 15 | 3:30–4:30 p.m.

About Alex Morrison 

Hailing from Berkeley, CA, and now residing in San Miguel de Allende, Alex Morrison is a multifaceted talent. As a spoken word artist, poet, and former Responsible Artificial Intelligence Ethicist for Amazon Web Services (AWS), Alex brings a unique perspective to the world of language and technology. A wordsmith with a conscience.

Pronouns: They/them/theirs (why this matters)

About Ellen Morrison

A mental health therapist and artist who believes in the power of stories to heal and inspire, Ellen Morrison is recognized for her anti-racism and racial healing work, and brings a unique perspective to the literary world.  As a skilled facilitator, she will guide participants in navigating the delicate balance between cultural inspiration and appropriation with open dialogue and creative exploration. She has immigrated from the San Francisco Bay Area to live in beautiful San Miguel de Allende. ellenmorrison.com

pronouns: she, her, hers (why this matters)

About Danielle Trussoni

Danielle Trussoni is a New York Times and internationally bestselling novelist whose books have been described as “Astonishing” (Publishers Weekly) and “Thrilling” (David Baldacci). She was the chair jurist of the Pulitzer Prize in Fiction and a book columnist for The New York Times Book Review. Her novels have been translated into over thirty languages. danielletrussoni.com