Whose Stories Does the Landscape Hold? A Conversation on Transcendentalism & Contemporary Life

Wednesday, November 18, 2026 6:00—7:00 PM Goodwin Forum Main Library 129 Main Street, Concord, MA, 01742 Throughout the 2026–27 academic year, the Center for the Study of World Religions (CSWR) at Harvard Divinity School is exploring the history, legacy, and contemporary relevance of Transcendentalism with special programming, including scholarly talks open to the public.  This fall, the Center for the Study of World Religions, the Concord Free Public Library, and the Thoreau Alliance are launching a new collaborative series of public conversations in Concord.  Beginning with an inaugural conversation on October 13, the series brings CSWR Transcendentalism scholars into conversation with writers, scholars, artists, and broader audiences, exploring questions that connect Transcendentalist thought and practice with contemporary intellectual, cultural, and public life.  This conversation, "Whose Stories Does the Landscape Hold?," features Elise Lemire, Rochelle Johnson, and Simon Cox. An additional conversation is scheduled for December 9, 2026, at the Concord Free Public Library. Co-sponsored by the Center for the Study of World Religions at Harvard Divinity School and The Thoreau Alliance. Accessibility The Concord Free Public Library is committed to providing everyone with unimpeded access to our resources, programs, and services. Learn more about accessibility at our libraries. You can also email our administration team or give us a call at either of our libraries to request additional accommodations. Our Sponsors The Concord Free Public Library's programs are free to the public thanks to the generous support of the Friends of the Concord Free Public Library and the Concord Free Public Library Corporation. Register online between 9/14/2026 6:00 PM and 11/18/2026 6:00 PM.