Join us for an engaging lecture that delves into the deeper themes of Ken Kesey’s novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, the basis for the critically acclaimed film that won the "big five" Academy Awards. While the movie is iconic, the novel addresses profound themes of masculinity, trauma, mental illness, and the power of laughter as a coping mechanism. This lecture will explore how Kesey's life, his use of LSD, and his involvement in the “counterculture” shaped the novel’s themes. Discover the connection between Kesey’s personal experiences and the groundbreaking narrative that continues to resonate today. Whether you're a fan of the film or the book, this session offers fresh insights into a classic work of literature. This program is being presented with limited enrollment.

Dr. Matthew Klauza is an English and literature professor at Palm Beach State College and a two-time Mark Twain Research Fellowship winner with the Center for Mark Twain Studies. He earned his Ph.D. in American Literature from Auburn University and has presented nationally, including work as a scholar-in-residence at Mark Twain’s summer home.

”He knows his stuff, is fun, and I always learn some amazing tidbit to take home.” OLLI Patron