Monday, February 4, 2008

post AWP



Back from AWP, where it was more peaceful walking the streets of Manhattan than inside the Bookfair. Overwhelming: about 500 booths, thousands of publications, 7000 people, 30 panels each hour, readings, book signings, famous writer sightings, too much.

Best experiences for me: James Tate reading followed by hilarious interview with Robert Casper (editor of jubilat); presentation on hybrid forms by Ander Monson and Michael Martone; Frank McCourt's hammy homage to teachers; hanging out with poet Jen Sullivan; strolling Central Park (see image of Balto); 24-hour French restaurant; cool night air.

Worst experiences: miserable Gate A1 at LaGuardia; skipping dinner and eating crappy nut mix in the hotel bar; overheated rooms; no free WiFi; not enough $$ to gorge on books.

Next year, Chicago. Hm.

7 comments:

Frank (the Colt) said...

sounds like so much fun. You'll have to tell me on Tuesday.

Meagan said...

I think the wolf or husky sculpture is saying hello to your dog on the margin. Sounds fun in spite of LaGuardia which is just never any good.

dork said...

Amy- sounds like you had a blast- I think every airport in America pretty much blows- next time you are out here let me know- you could have stayed in my extra room and had more money for books.

Diane Vogel Ferri said...

Ahh, a writer in New York - what could be better - I've been there a few times this year.

Amy said...

Frank--I think Jay had the most fun.
Meagan--I'm crazy for huskies.
Dork--had no idea where you were located! Next time.
Nin--wish I'd seen more of you too. I heard Russell Edson once called you a sexpot.
Diane--sounds more romantic than it is. I think there are more writers in NY than homeless people.

mydisguises said...

i really like this picture.

Anonymous said...

Nice picture Spark Plug! Tell me how you really feel!