With a hodgepodge of beach blankets, crock-pots and Bay area writers, the Literary Salon will make its debut this week in Harbor Hall. The event celebrates the launch of the university’s new creative writing certificate program and is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 17 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the community room of Harbor Hall.
“This isn’t going to be a stuffy literary event,” said Tom Hallock, associate professor of literature and coordinator for the gathering.
Originally named the “Broke A$$ Literary Salon,” the “Literary Salon” will feature five-minute readings from local poets, playwrights and authors. The time limit will ensure people are reading their best work, Hallock said.
In an effort to blend the literary community, Hallock wanted the event to be geared toward students engaging with local working writers.
Budgeting thousands of dollars to fly in a semi-famous writer is unnecessary in this community, he said. “There are plenty of writers who are willing to come in for a bowl of chili.”
And chili there will be. Along with the event, Hallock will be coordinating provisions that are positively vegetarian.
The community room will be cleared for the salon, making way for the lawn chairs and blankets guests are urged to bring. Donations will be accepted to cover refreshment costs.
Writers scheduled on the list include Ian Vasquez, author of three crime novels; playwright Dewey Davis-Thompson; Gina Vivinetto, former St. Petersburg Times pop critic and children’s comic book author; and others.
Hallock hopes the salon will take place annually, and is knocking around a future idea to include student showcases and a night for songwriters.
The creative writing certificate is a 15 credit hour program offered to students working toward their bachelor’s degree and non-degree seeking students with a bachelor’s degree.
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Photo by Daniel Mutter
