Dick Joins The Left Coast Writers Salon

According to Wikipedia (the source of all important knowledge these days, n'est-ce pas?): "A salon is a gathering of stimulating people of quality under the roof of an inspiring hostess or host, partly to amuse one another and partly to refine their taste and increase their knowledge through conversation and readings, often consciously following Horace's definition of the aims of poetry, "either to please or to educate" ("aut delectare aut prodesse est"). The salons, commonly associated with French literary and philosophical salons of the 17th century and 18th century, were carried on until quite recently in urban settings among like-minded people of a 'set': many 20th-century salons could be instanced." (Click here to read more about those hoity-toity French salons).

After learning about publication in the San Francisco Chronicle of Dick's travel story on Southeast Alaska, author Linda Watanabe McFerrin suggested that he attend the Left Coast Writers Literary Salon which she leads and which meets monthly at the Book Passage bookstore in Corte Madera. (This not a big deal like being invited to join the Royal Academy. You don't have to be sponsored or voted in. Anybody can go to the Book Passage Web site and plunk down the "readies" --- as the British call cash--- and become a member of the group which includes new and experienced writers).

Here's how Book Passage describes these soirees: "The monthly meetings provide an evening of literary connections, support, counsel, provocative readings, writing tips, literary chat, unabashed networking, and great fun. Each meeting also features a presentation by one of several Bay Area literary figures. LCW has its own lively newsletter and website at www.leftcoastwriters.com."

So Dick is now out shopping for the appropriate attire to don when attending these events, but is not sure whether a smoking jacket and ascot would be best, or if he should just show up wearing his REI zip-off pants, MALT baseball cap, and hiking boots.