Runaway, by Alice Munro (2004)

Just as a swimmer, who with his last breath
flounders ashore from perilous seas, might turn
to memorize the wide water of his death --
so did I turn, my soul still fugitive
from death's surviving image, to stare down
that pass that none had ever left alive.
from Dante's Inferno

I came upon a child of God
He was walking along the road
And I asked him, where are you going
And this he told me
I'm going on down to Yasgur's farm
I'm going to join in a rock 'n' roll band
I'm going to camp out on the land
I'm going to try an' get my soul free
We are stardust
We are golden
And we've got to get ourselves
Back to the garden
from Woodstock, by Joni Mitchell


Howdy All,

As we prepare for the last two titles in this reading year, RUNAWAY, by Alice Munro (Paul) and THE TIME IT NEVER RAINED, by Elmer Kelton (Gem), I would like to take this opportunity to urge each of you to begin considering your pick for next year's list. That is, assuming you haven't already nailed that down! As in the past, I would prefer to have the list and its accompanying schedule completed by November first. Does this mean that the annual harassment of members for titles is upon us? But of course!

Please bear in mind the yearly categories of short fiction, banned book, poetry, Nat'l Black History Month, and sub-cultural/international title. Also, attention should be paid to insuring a solid representation of female writers. Beyond these areas, the sky's the limit! I would also send a special appeal to anyone who has not led a discussion for a while, as well as anyone who has yet to choose a book. Please, share with us your insight and your interests. In this way we'll continue to give voice to the diversity and depth of the best book club in all East Texas. So. My pen/cursor is poised to note your suggestions for 2015. I know that we'll all be challenged and delighted by your suggestions.

Also, this might be a good time to start considering where we might like to have our annual holiday party. Ideas on this would be appreciated. For instance we might consider whether we want to hold the party in one of our homes, or at a restaurant or other public venue. Thoughts?

Paul Cronemeyer presides on Tuesday night. See you there.