Caren Irr

Associate Professor of English and American Literature
Ph.D., Duke University

Current research
I am finishing a book on women writers and copyright. As late as the early 20th century, women had only an uneasy right to own writing in the United States, and with the renewed interest in copyright in recent years (e.g., issues with music downloading), a number of novelists have become interested in revisiting that history. My book tries to explain how and why these writers see creative women as continuing to have an especially troubled claim to ownership of writing. In my next book, I want to write about some aspect of environmentalism in American literature. I am especially interested in finding out what kind of writing most strongly intensifies perceptions of nature.

Favorite classroom experience
One of my favorite Brandeis moments happened outside the classroom one fall day, when a former student stopped by to thank me for introducing him to a particular writer's work the previous semester. He said he had spent the summer reading all of that author's books. When I suggested he might want to write a senior essay on that author, he looked at me, puzzled, and responded that, no, he was just interested in doing this reading because it was enjoyable and intellectually exciting. I was so happy for him.

What makes Brandeis special
Its hilltop vistas and proximity to Walden Pond, as well as the unusually varied opportunities to study languages, are all unique features of the university.

Last book read for pleasure
"The Darling" by Russell Banks.

Favorite world city to visit
I recently visited Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, and was overwhelmed by the size and vitality of the city. The coffee was unbelievably good, and all the people I met were unswervingly kind in addition to being dedicated to making life better for the many children there who find themselves in a very difficult situation. I am eager to return when I have a better handle on Amharic, the national language.