Here at The Artist’s Bookshelf we’re busy gearing-up for our next meeting (Thursday, Oct. 5th, 7 pm) during which we will tackle the infintely intriguing graphic novel Fun Home.
Our very special guest, cartoonist Robert Kirby (who suggested this book to us in the first place), will offer his insights into the wide world of cartooning, as well as insights into author (and close, personal friend) Alison Bechdel’s creative process.
Rob is a high-energy guy, with the wit and compassion to match. This discussion is guaranteed to be lively.
We hope to dwell a bit upon the auto-biographical nature of the story, and examine how the author exploits the “self-as-content” paradigm with surprising objectivity and emotional detachment.
We will also discuss the thematic issues of sexual identity, and the irony of the protagonist proclaiming herself a lesbian, just as she discovers that her father has lived his life in the closet.
Last but not least, we will marvel at how any piece of literature centered in a funeral home can be so funny… and so sad… and ultimately, so thought provoking.
It felt bad to see people dribble out the door because they thought the esteemed author was going to be there reading her work and it was just us (and, well, Robert Kirby). Some remained out of politeness and/or interest who had not read the book and some were even able to join the discussion. I’m still looking at that book — the words and the pictures. I guess I should move on as the next selection appears to be longish. I hope all those people will read it and come. Thank you, Mr. Kirby for suggesting this fabulous book.
Comment by Trish — 10/7/2006 @ 4:57 pm