Understanding grief: WMU philosophy professor awarded National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowship

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—In a world where grief often feels like uncharted territory, Dr. Ashley Atkins, Western Michigan University associate professor of philosophy, seeks to gain a deeper understanding of loss. Atkins recently secured a coveted National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowship, marking a significant milestone in her research journey.

The fellowship, which supports research, education, preservation and public programs in the humanities, will bolster Atkins' efforts to craft a thought-provoking book that delves into the complexities of grief through the lens of contemporary memoirs.

Atkins' project draws inspiration from a diverse array of sources including literature, philosophy and social commentary. Her exploration centers on the rich tapestry of first-hand accounts of grief, from contemporaneous notes, observations and diary entries to the grief memoir. Works such as “The Year of Magical Thinking” by Joan Didion and “'A Widow's Story” by Joyce Carol Oates serve as touchstones as she seeks to situate grief within broader narrative contexts. Her work examines personal relationships, as well as the strange bodily shifts that can occur in grief, such as the sensation that time is suspended or arrested or that one's body is no longer a living body.

"It's only in hindsight that I can see the experiences that planted the seeds for this curiosity," says Atkins, reflecting on both personal and academic influences that have shaped her interest in grief.

Her journey into the realm of grief began with a focus on political writings, particularly surrounding the Black Lives Matter movement. Atkins recalls being profoundly moved by Claudia Rankine's essay, "The Condition of Black Life is One of Mourning," which explored the mournful aspects of the movement's actions. This initial inquiry eventually led her to delve deeper into the philosophical dimensions of grief, including an encounter with C.S. Lewis's "A Grief Observed" during a workshop on the philosophy of language.

"In recent years, there has been a notable surge in literature centered on grief, reflecting a growing need for expression and understanding in the face of a profound and often isolating human emotion," says Atkins.

Indeed, what unites these diverse texts is a common sentiment expressed by many grieving individuals: the feeling of profound loneliness and the realization that their experiences of grief are often uncharted territory. As more individuals seek to share their experiences through writing, these texts serve not only as personal narratives but also as valuable resources for those navigating similar journeys of loss.

Atkins' research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of grief and its myriad manifestations by offering solace and connection to those grappling with the complexities of loss. By examining the nuances of grief memoirs, observations of grief and other literary manifestations, as well as speaking with people about their experiences with grief, she seeks to unveil the intricate connections between form, narrative and the portrayal of personal loss.

“I feel really grateful that people have been willing to share their own personal experiences with me. Whenever I have an exchange where someone is able to open up, I feel like I am on the right track. It’s a very special part of this experience for me,” says Atkins.

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