Sherry Chandler

Am I aging myself by using that term? Oh well, I’m old(ish).

I am often told that I read well, and I like to believe that, but I do not read easily. Stagefright has a physical manifestation: sometimes nausea, sometimes shortness-of-breath, pretty much always irritability. (I owe a lot to my long-suffering family.) I am not unique in this, of course. It happens to every performer.

Why am I telling you this? Because reading at the Rud last night was the easiest reading I’ve ever given. There is something so relaxed and welcoming about that room that, the moment I walked in, I felt that I was just one among friends having fun.

And to some extent this was true. Louisville is Green River Writers country, and they were there for JimT and me. I am very, very grateful for that. I love reading to the GRW. They’re my nurturing family.

But much credit is due to Erin Keane and the atmosphere she creates.

I should also throw modesty to the wind and mention the quality of the talent she brings in for the InKY series. To read with excellent writers/readers/singers helps you read your best. Jim Tomlinson is, of course, just the best. Brigid Kaelin is a treat — go hear her if you get the chance. And Eric Mattingly, in his first featured reading, showed himself to be a rising young poet. Look for good things from Eric.

Sherry Chandler, Jim Tomlinson, and Gin Petty at the Rud. Photo by Morgan S. Williams.

Oh yes, I should also mention that service was good and so, my son reports, was the food. (I don’t eat much when I’m reading.) Reasonable prices, too.

This is the only time I’ve been to an InKY reading but I feel sure it’s always like this. And I hope to get back again. Next month, for National Poetry Month, the bill includes Maurice Manning. There’s a link in my sidebar. Keep a watch and go join the fun.

If I seem to be still a little starry-eyed this morning, well, I had a big time, to quote Silas House.

Addendum: Jim announced last night that University of Iowa Press is issuing a second printing of Things Kept, Things Left Behind. Congratulations, Jim!