I just returned from the annual AWP conference in Chicago, which is probably one of the largest writer/writing conferences in the country. It’s always stimulating and always chaotic. This year again, I moderated a panel called, “Writing in Multiple Genres,” with my panelists were Phillip Lopate, Molly Peacock, David Huddle and Rebecca McClanahan. The room was full and my panelists were marvelous.
The rest of my days there were spent doing book signings for my latest poetry collection, Dear Anaïs: My Life in Poems for You, roaming the book fair, checking out the latest releases and speaking to editors and publishers. As an advocate of traveling only with a carry-on, I shipped back a box of books, literature and contact information. I usually spend my first week home focusing on follow-ups. It’s sad that I rarely get to check out the city where the conference is—as I’m so wrapped up in the goings on. At night there were meetings in the bar and specially sponsored cocktail parties. For a California girl it was quite cold and the city was also prepping to receive Michelle and Barack to celebrate one of their favorite holidays, Valentine’s Day in their home town!
Did anyone else go? If so, what was your experience like this year?