Taking Action
Photography by Calder SellWritten by Gabby Masson As a writer, I often wonder if anyone ever reads a word I write. I think every writer goes through some existential crisis about their own writing’s relevance, importance, and inherent goodness. However, this year I have been introduced to the concept of literary action, or taking action in the community to expose and share other literary works. This concept, though seemingly very simple, blew my mind. If all artists viewed, shared, and talked about other local artists’ work, there would be so much more buzz for not only the individual artist, but about art itself, and these existential questions would be quieted by actual feedback and recognition from the community. In part of being an active advocate for literature and art in the community, I, along with numerous other peers, am hosting the event “Read and Recycle” on April 26th at ZuZu’s Cafe (1336 Drake Street). If you’re looking for a way to start your contribution to literary action in the Madison community, or for a new (free!) book to read, or to share some work at an open mic, this is a great way to do it: a book swap and family-friendly open mic. Bring a gently used book to enter the book swap - the more books you bring, the more books you can take home! An open mic will be available for sharing poetry, prose, readings, or improv in relation to earth day, nature, or just life on earth in general. Anyone can participate in this family-friendly event! For more information, visit the event page at https://www.facebook.com/events/793181681054060/. If poetry interests you, look into the LitFest Kick-Off: Open Mic Poetry Slam hosted by WUD publications at their event page https://www.facebook.com/events/1202737096553095/. For other ideas about getting involved in Madison’s literary and art scene, check out the Madison Public Library’s website for local events, readings, and activities at https://www.madisonpubliclibrary.org/new or this year’s UW-Madison art exhibition schedule at https://art.wisc.edu/galleries/galleries-exhibition-schedule/.