The long-standing reading series continues to weave poetry into the cultural tapestry of Alicante, reinforcing the city as a hub for literary dialogue. Guests arrive at the Pynchon & Co bookstore from nearby and distant towns alike, drawn by the promise of fresh voices and intimate conversations about verse, memory, and the power of language. On the schedule, a guest writer is welcomed for a literary visit that evening, followed by a discussion led by a Valencian poet, writer, and professor who guides attendees through the intimate world of contemporary Catalan and Spanish-language verse. The evening also features a tribute to a respected figure in the local scene, underscoring the ongoing thread of connection between past and present generations of poets. The venue is celebrated for its curated selections and its role as a gathering point for readers and writers in and beyond the city limits.
These poetry readings and artist talks trace their lineage back to an avant-garde series born in Istanbul in October 1987, later echoed by a literary pub scene on Labradores Street in Valencia. The format was sustained by a seasoned host who continued the tradition at La Revolica pub on Paseo de Ramiro for several years, gradually becoming a benchmark for intimate, spontaneous exchanges about poetry and the craft of writing.
This initiative has enjoyed a modern revival, with a determined group of collaborators rekindling the flame of live poetry. The project has benefited from the participation of the Pynchon & Co bookstore and support from cultural collectives in Alicante, ensuring the readings remain accessible to a broad audience and rooted in a spirit of shared discovery.
The organizer recalls a memorable moment in the sequence of events when a late-1980s reading took place at the La Naia bar, featuring a collaborative presentation with notable poets and writers. The present year marks a renewal of that same spirit, signaling continuity, ongoing experimentation, and a commitment to poetic excellence, now carried forward by a new generation of organizers and readers. The remark highlights the enduring influence of the earlier era and the role of Victoria Cremades in guiding the current iteration of the program.
Current participants include a lineup of poets who bring diverse voices to the readings. The roster features Juli Capilla, Mercè Climent, Toni Prats, Anna Ballester, Begonia Mezquita, Mari Carme Arnau, Lluís Ferri, Manel Pitarch, and Maria Josep Escrivà. Attendees can also anticipate readings by community contributors and volunteers who have supported the initiative from behind the scenes, ensuring that the event runs smoothly and remains inviting to new readers. The breadth of talent reflects the city’s rich tapestry of literary history and its ongoing commitment to nurturing emerging poets while honoring established voices.