I don’t just profess a devotion to art. I live it. I breathe it and if it came in cellophane, I’d unwrap and eat it, too
What I’m most excited about Black Ink, to be truly honest, is that we’re presenting writers whose works enjoy reading and listen to when read aloud. So after a couple of months of planning, spending cash to make everything just right, we’re finally here and I feel like it’s the beginning.
I spent yesterday binding chapbooks that were edited, with covers designed specifically for Lynsey’s short story (“Expiration Dates”). My counter looked like a small publishing house with stacks of papers, a stapler, and freshly printed jackets. And the shot glasses manufactured in my home town of Miami provide an extra special personal touch. This is DIY punk. It’s the best I can do to control the future and control content.
May 1st marks the anniversary of The Whiskey Dregs — at least as far as website is concerned because we’ve been around longer than that. It’s been one hell of a year and I feel bad that we’re not going to do an anniversary jam so tomorrow night will have to suffice. In other words, I’ll be ready to ensure everyone’s good time because it guarantees my good time.
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A secret: I hate speaking in front of people. I suck at it. I stand on the stage and I freeze and I see countless eyeballs staring at the stage where my body is and the spotlight is on my face; it feels warm and invasive. I’d rather hold my hand up to a candle. This time is different. I have something to say and I’ll say it, too.
This is the first reading in which every author was chosen to represent an aspect of The Whiskey Dregs philosophy. Whether they agree with it or not, I cannot say, nor do I wish to speak for them but when I read their works, I find a part of myself nodding in agreement with their projected theme. Some are activists. I used to be an activist. In a way I am. I profess free living, full physical and spiritual exploration. The trial and error is the fun part. The rest is just insight. Let’s talk about it more.
So if you see me, hiding in the dark while David or Tony or Stephen or YH Etheart or Lynsey or Christina read, know that I’m having the time of my life and when the after party begins with Belladonna behind the 1s and 2s, mixing some of our favorite tunes, just know that I’m crazy excited. It’s an experience to share.
If you do come tomorrow night, and I hope you will, make sure to say hello. I’ll be the guy on the stage introducing some of my favorite writers. Buy a book, have a shot from your new Whiskey Dregs shot glass; I’ll have one with you. Let’s toast to all those things we like to do but society shuns.
There are too many people to thank for supporting this event and participating in its development. Love to you all.
P.S. I listened to this song while writing this.
