Instead of reminding all of you how grateful we are at the Library of Congress for writers and good books, there’s another way to practice literary gratitude this Thanksgiving: by engaging with writers who have talked thoughtfully about it at a Library of Congress event. We combed through our archives for writers who are thankful for their writer forbearers and contemporaries, as well as for readers. Here are a selection, in no particular order:
Poet Ross Gay in Conversation with Washington Post Critic Ron Charles About his Books, including “Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude” and “The Book of Delights” (2019):
Life of a Poet: Ross Gay | Library of Congress
Former U.S. Poet Laureate Philip Levine’s Speaks of Gratitude for His College Writing Classmates (2012):
Philip Levine Closes the Literary Season | Library of Congress
Children’s Writer Meg Medina in Conversation with Jerry Pinkney during the Online 2021 National Book Festival (NBF):
Meg Medina and Jerry Pinkney: National Book Festival 2021 | Library of Congress
Young Adult Writer Sabaa Tahir During the Online 2020 NBF with Gratitude for Her Childhood Librarian:
Sabaa Tahir: National Book Festival 2020 | Library of Congress
And from the Most Recent NBF, Ayana Mathis and Viet Thanh Nguyen Are Grateful for James Baldwin’s Life and Career (2024):
Ayana Mathis and Viet Thanh Nguyen: James Baldwin’s Centennial | Library of Congress
Happy Thanksgiving!
Comments (2)
In sincerest gratitude to our Librarian of Congress, Dr. Carla Hayden, for the culture she has created at LOC and shares with our nation and the world. And special thanks to the team, staff, volunteers, and laureates who have brought this special love to life.
Namaste
…supremely grateful for all the wonderful professionals, staff and even the cafeteria! Thank you!