There are at least two literary events tonight in Vancouver that are definitely worth checking out for those interested in words that wander off the beaten path. Starting at seven o’clockSpartacus Books is hosting Microfiction Regarding Beasts and Other Such Things with a lineup that includes Mark Dahl, Luke Hillan, Maren Lisac, Craig MacKie and Donato Mancini. Afterwards, if you’re interested in trying out your own vocal chords behind a book and in front of an audience, you should head towards Granville Street where the W.A. Deacon Literary Foundation will organize students from UBC and SFU to conduct a reading of George Bowering’s Burning Water between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m at the 700 block of Granville Street (between Robson & West Georgia). Volunteers from the general public will also have the opportunity to read for a 15-minute period.
After all this literary experimentation you might want to start a little publication of your own, which is where next weekend comes into play. The /diagonal west coast zine fair is a celebration of independent and creative publishing in Vancouver. The show will include literary zines from makers from all over Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and beyond. The gallery will be set up library-style, and guests are invited to take down any zine they want and experience it. Tables will be set up in the back for zine purchases, and the night will include readings by local poets and music by local bands. All this at 221A Artist Run Centre (221 E. Georgia St) on Aug. 7 from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. (entertainment (poetry readings and music) start at 6 p.m.)
