January is right around the corner, and along with the new page on the calendar comes the desire to start fresh. We feel the need to simplify and reconnect ourselves with our priorities. We set goals, and chart the course for seeing them through to fruition.
These resolutions come in many forms. One can go the standard “lose 10 pounds” route, or you can get a little more creative. Maybe you’ve always wanted to scale a mountain, run a marathon, or even, write a book. While these all seem like lofty goals, if your heart’s desire leans a little closer to the latter part of that list, you are in luck, as a valuable resource is waiting for you right here in your own backyard.
Starting out as a writer can be very intimidating, whether you are writing a personal history, blog, short story, or novel. Will anyone relate to what you have to say? Will all your hard work matter to anyone beside yourself? Will anyone other than dear old mom ever read your work?
Wouldn’t it be great if there were a group where you could air out these questions? Talk to more seasoned writers, get suggestions on which direction to go, and just have a great open forum on good literature in general? Well, as luck would have it, the Pen on Fire Writers Salon in Corona del Mar offers just that.
Hosted by author, writing instructor, and radio host Barbara DeMarco-Barrett, the monthly salon features authors, literary agents, and others involved in the field of writing. Set in the atmospheric Scape Gallery in Corona del Mar, the salon is a mecca for literary devotees who listen to readings, take part in discussions, and attend book signings.
The next salon will take place Jan. 17, at 7 p.m., and feature author T. Jefferson Parker, who will be discussing his new novel, “The Jaguar.” Tickets are $20 and include the usual “nibbles and sips.” The event is expected to sell out, so get your tickets early, and be sure to arrive on time to guarantee your seat.
Parker, a return guest of the salon, is a native of Orange County, and began his career reporting for the Newport Ensign and the Daily Pilot, where he won three Orange County Press Club awards for his articles.
Since then, he has published 17 novels, with the 18th set to debut on Jan. 10.
His writing revolves around crime, life and death in sunny Southern California, and has been published to rave reviews. In addition to appearing on many bestseller lists, he has also won an Edgar Award – the top award for mystery fiction.
His latest effort, “The Jaguar,” is “a crime thriller that redefines the landscape of the cartel wars as an epic clash of good and evil.”
Parker himself is both an invaluable resource for those wishing to navigate the same writing-world waters he has already charted, as well as a captivating speaker, who will provide a great evening of discussion for those with a more passive interest in literature.
No matter which category you fall into, this will be an evening well worth the $20 price tag, and it might even jump-start you to achieving your goal for the new year!
For more information on the Pen on Fire Writers Salon or Barbara DeMarco-Barrett, or to purchase tickets, please visit www.penonfire.com/speakerseries.
