English Language and Literature ETDs
Publication Date
Spring 5-13-2023
Abstract
This dissertation is a collection of poems centering on themes of nature, awe, mental illness, trauma, therapy, medication, healing, family, faith, and environmentalism. The author explores experiences with obsessive-compulsive disorder and depression, as well as a loss of faith in the religion of his upbringing. A love of nature becomes a source of healing and strength, even while environmental destruction and climate change engender grief. The preface provides context for the poems (including the author’s overall development/influences), and discusses his experiences writing spontaneous poems for patrons at a local farmers’ market.
Degree Name
MFA Creative Writing
Level of Degree
Masters
Department Name
English
First Committee Member (Chair)
Diane Thiel
Second Committee Member
Stephen Benz
Third Committee Member
Tiffany Bourelle
Fourth Committee Member
Abraham Smith
Language
English
Keywords
poetry, creative writing, nature, mental illness, environment, awe
Document Type
Dissertation
Recommended Citation
Mortensen-Hayes, Tyler. "Meadowlark: Poems." (2023). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/engl_etds/340
