There was a delightful intersection on the venn diagram of things I like, when cult clothing label Old Town sent me news inviting me to a literary festival near Holt, Norfolk. The fabulous Diana Athill would be a headlining act. So, I enquired and informed that Ms.Juno would also be welcome. We got front row seats.
A very dear old friend had just moved to Dersingham, not a million miles from this extraordinary house near Holt, so we had somewhere to stay. Voewood is a Grade I listed Arts & Crafts house, with a rather Queen Anne feel.
I have previously written about Diana Athill and have come to read more of her work, and not been disappointed. I'm not sure why it was such a draw to hear the 95-year-old writer speak. I love her work but I can't help being inspired by her approach to ageing, and indeed her acceptance of the vagaries of existence.
So, we heard her read from her book of short stories, Midsummer Night in the Workhouse, published by Persephone Books, a favourite haunt on Lambs Conduit Street.
There were many other writers, with worthy and interesting books and things to say. Of note was a great talk by photographer, Martin Parr. Of course, the aesthetic was spot on, as were the refreshments:
An unexpectedly interesting experience was a taster bibliotherapy session with Ella Berthoud. As I want to embrace contemporary writing, somewhat with trepidation, it was great to let someone lead the way a little. You can see a bibliotherapist if you are stuck with your reading, but also if you are stuck with your life.
Hugely jealous. Wish I'd known about this.
Posted by: Clare | October 19, 2012 at 03:11 PM