Proust Seminar at M.I.
with Dr. Mark Calkins

Marcel Proust's In Search of Lost Time (also known in English as Remembrance of Things Past) is a monumental, seven-volume novel that Edmund White calls, “the most respected novel of the twentieth century.” Whether you've been too intimidated to begin the novel, have already wrestled with Proust's dense prose, or know the joys of savoring his work, you’ll find something of value in reading it with an expert guide.

SFSU Professor of Comparative & World Literature, Mark Calkins has led the Proust Seminar at the Mechanics' Institute Library since 2001. In September 2017, the Seminar will begin its sixth 3-year cycle, starting again with Swann's Way.

• The group meets on the 2^nd and 4^th Wednesdays of the month from 5:30pm to 6:30pm at Mechanics’ Institute.
• This semester on Swann's Way will begin on September 13, 2017 and end February 28, 2018.
• Registration is open to all.
  • Mechanics' Institute members pay $70 for each 5-month session;
  • Members of the public pay $100.
• This cycle, Dr. Calkins will begin using William Carter's revised translation of Swann's Way, published by Yale University Press. However, any translation is acceptable.

Interested in what current attendees of the Proust Seminar have to say about the expierience? Here are just a few testimonials:

"When reading a novel of this length and complexity, the insights and encouragement of a reading group are invaluable.  I am finishing my second 3-year reading of In Search of Lost Time with Mark Calkins and the Proust Group, and the second reading was more enjoyable and enlightening than the first.  Each member of the group brings a unique set of experiences and opinions to the group.  That, plus Mark’s skill as a moderator and extensive knowledge of the novel, make for great discussions at every meeting."

"Mark leads our Proust Group with wit, empathy and erudition. He provides important background and insights as well as open-ended questions that lead to lively discussion. I can’t imagine a better way to read this great masterpiece. Mark is a truly remarkable guide and interpreter of Proust."

"I am just about to complete the full three year Proust seminar. Mark Calkins is an able leader and facilitator of provocative analysis and discussions that assist participants in gaining greater insights into this complex novel. It has been a most satisfying experience, and I heartily recommend it."

Contact Heather at [email protected] or 415.857.6727 with questions about registration, or contact Dr. Calkins with questions about the group.

Registration