Aaand Che has a new book…
West Virginia poet (long resident of Pittsburgh) Che Elias’s new poetry collection is out, and it is an arresting offering. Titled Of Tire & Anonymity and published by Six Gallery Press, it is his first in a number of years. Anyone who has read Elias’s work is aware that it is idiosyncratic and visionary and unlike anything anyone else has ever done.
TONIGHT…
“Four Poets, One Cup” or “How to Keep Poetry Relevant in the Modern Age”
Four distinct, diverse and dynamic authors [Jason Baldinger, Margaret Bashaar, Michael Begnal, & John Thomas Menesini] come together for one night of literary neck-punches and anarchistic chicanery. Their intent is to prove that poetry is neither an exclusive pretentious hipster clubhouse nor a dry inaccessible academic snoozefest. Join them at Jozart Center for the Arts, 333 2nd Street, California on Friday, April 17 from 7-10 p.m. Admission is free. The authors will have merchandise to sell. Books will be available. Carousing is expected.
THIS THURSDAY…
The Coffee House Reading Series, a public reading featuring recognized and emerging authors, continues on Thursday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. in the Barnes & Noble Café [Power Center, 600 Forbes Ave., Uptown].
Michael Begnal, a Duquesne instructor of English, and Karen Lillis, founding bookseller and editor of Small Press Pittsburgh, will share selections of their poetry.
Begnal, who will read from his most recent poetry collection Future Blues as well as excerpts from his yet unpublished work, said he is excited to be a part of the series. “I think the Coffeehouse Reading Series is a great thing for the University,” said Bengal. “I think this will be a unique experience for the campus community.”
Lillis’ readings will highlight the musicality of storytelling. She recently won the Kathy Acker Award for fiction, which focuses on experimental or small-press writing.
Sponsored by the Department of English, the series aims to develop the creative writing and arts community on campus. The Coffee House Reading Series is always free and open to the public.
The series will return on Tuesday, Feb. 3, with Scott Silsbe and Craig Bernier. For more information, email coffeehouse@duq.edu or visit www.duq.edu/english-events.
TOMORROW, the mysterious Che Elias emerges from the shadows for his first reading in quite a long time, along with Renee Alberts, Michael Begnal & the ubiquitous Kevin Finn – an all-star cast of Pittsburgh poetry legends! Listen to the words, buy the books & stock up on Amazing Books brand Bookdarts – my pick for 2013 product of the year.
Six Gallery Press 