Venturing out again
This week I've been out and about most nights and, after those (now almost hazy) years of isolating and being reluctant to venture out, my delight in socialising has returned. It feels a bit like muscle memory.
On Sunday morning, I arrived at Bondi Pavilion for the Sydney Jewish Writers Festival, well in time for my 10am session with Rabbi Ralph Genende, Ros Ben-Moshe and Joanne Fedler. After the session, I caught up with Melbourne and Sydney friends before eating too many smoked salmon bagels in the Green Room. In the afternoon, Scott Whitmont curated readings by eight writers - including me. I've always loved being read to and it was a delight to be both reader and listener. In the evening, the FourPlay String Quartet was astounding. They've been collaborating with writer Neil Gaiman to compose music to accompany poetry. The work Clock had me particularly spellbound. Later, UK writer, comedian and atheist David Baddiel debated and argued the existence of God with host of Radio National's Soul Search, Meredith Lake.
Monday night was the Sydney launch of Doll's Eye, Leah Kaminsky's new novel. It's the fascinating story of a German woman and a Yiddish poet who, having fled war-torn Europe, meet in the remote (now abandoned) town of Birdum in the Australian outback. Tom and Meg Keneally launched the book, Jane Turner from Gertrude and Alice Bookstore hosted the event and Scott Whitmont showcased his skills as MC.
Tuesday night was the launch of Jeanne Ryckmans memoir, Trust: A Fractured Fable. It's a wry and darkly funny account of Jeanne's encounter with the Irish professor who wasn't. Jo Dyer launched the book with a witty, hilarious and touching speech while Upswell publisher, Terri-Ann White, shone with pride.
Tomorrow night, the ever generous Jane Caro is joining us on Thursday Book Club. To my delight, Jane will be interviewing me about my new novel, The Watchful Wife. We'll also be chatting about our writing and our reading. You can join us at 8pm here.
Hope your week has been filled with fun and friendship and a good book!