The play of research: What Creative Writing has to teach the academy

Abstract

Drawing on ideas and debates about the nature of play from neuroscience, animal studies, psychoanalysis, ludology and anthropology, this paper argues for the crucial role of play in improving our ability to create, innovate and contribute to the production of new knowledge and understanding. I consider the narrative interruption and sense of alterity demanded by play, in particular the importance of selfhood and the acquisition of worldly competence. I ask how institutions such as the modern university might enable, justify and benefit from playfulness.