Vanderbilt Hosts Annual Southern Festival of Books
The Southern Festival of Books took place on October 18 and 19, 2023, at multiple venues in Nashville, Tennessee. The festival was hosted by Vanderbilt University and aimed to promote humanities and literature. Participating locations included the Tennessee State Museum, Bicentennial Mall, and Tennessee State Library.
Purpose of the Festival
This annual event featured local authors engaging with readers and showcasing their works. It also provided a platform for small businesses to sell unique products and artistic creations. Admission was free, encouraging a wide range of community involvement.
Author Highlights
- Beth Malow: Author of “Beyond the Politics of Contempt,” Malow emphasized the need for dialogue among those with differing views. She encouraged attendees to connect through shared values rather than political differences.
- Lee Clark: A mystery novelist who drew inspiration from family members for her characters. Clark discussed her creative process, noting the ease of transitioning between writing projects.
Festival Experiences
Attendees shared their enriching experiences at the festival. Junior Elaine Wu enjoyed interacting with vendors and noted public art exhibits related to banned books. She highlighted the event’s significance in uplifting local authors, especially amid rising book bans.
- Katherine Gell: A junior at Vanderbilt, Gell appreciated the festival’s representation of Southern culture in literature, concluding that it showcased local stories and histories.
- Eliza Matthias: Matthias expressed excitement in meeting debut authors and gaining insights into the writing and publishing world, emphasizing the infectious enthusiasm of the writers.
Significance of the Southern Festival of Books
The Southern Festival of Books plays a crucial role in fostering a love for literature within the Greater Nashville community. It promotes critical thinking and highlights the rich cultural tapestry of the South, making it an invaluable experience for both residents and newcomers.
