Having only been to one of these readings before I was new to the idea of a professional writer reading their work why you sit an listen. Initially it sounded somewhat boring because I'm a visual learner and need the text in front of me so I can fully comprehend it. However, I was thoroughly pleased with the readings from last night.
Steve Himmer's reading seemed strange from the beginning. When he commented that his book dealt with a man who markets artificial plants I was turned off because it didn't interest me in the least. However, I was intrigued by his descriptive language throughout, specifically when he was speaking about the office. The vivid nature of his language made me feel as though I was actually in the office with the characters.
Robert Kloss offered up commentary on his Civil War novel in progress. Incorporating the word "alligator" in his title struck me as odd because based on his reading it didn't make that much sense. I was floored to hear that Lincoln actually exhumed the body of son because it is such an unusual thing to have happened, let alone to a form president of our country. Overall, I was least interested in his speech. The subject matter of his novel is something that doesn't intrigue me and his reading voice was somewhat monotone and I lost attention at various times throughout.
Matt Bell's "Cartographer's Girl" was my favorite reading of the night. I was visualizing with ease throughout his reading, specifically when he was speaking of the various objects for his job such as the sextants and compasses. Bell's reading kept on making me question what was going on in his story. I really wanted to know what specifically was wrong with the girl and about their relationship as a whole. I kept on needing more. During the questioning process at the end I was intrigued by his statement where he says he has to have his writing sound as good as it means. That issue is something that I struggle with tremendously and hope to continue to develop that skill throughout the course.
The night offered valuable writing from professionals. I"m looking forward to the next one.
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