Apologies for the day-late missive this week, but things seem to have got very busy now I can walk unaided (for a bit anyway), which is perfect timing as this coming Friday I shall be heading for the peaks of Derbyshire, Buxton specifically, for the annual AUK Writers Weekender. Now the term weekender has all sorts of connotations, and I’m afraid to say that, in this instance, most of them end up being true.
The preferred venue post-pandemic has been the central location of Buxton and more specifically the Brewery Tap. It is a welcoming pub that specialises in beer at a reasonable price and has a very welcoming atmosphere. What more do fifteen hard-bitten americana journalists need? Not much to be fair, apart from the company of their fellow travellers down the rock n roll highway. So who are your correspondents? A very disparate crew, as it turns out, with a skill set that ranges from artists via educators to broadcasters and beyond. There has yet to be a Stetson sighted at these gatherings, but there have been known to be outbreaks of beard stroking when discussing the oeuvre of a Hiatt or Clark.
In 2020, this meetup was the last social event I attended before lockdown. I couldn’t have had a better memory of the world before it became impossibly small and scary. Several people of indeterminate ages pouring themselves from pub to pub, full of the joy of a common interest and common goal (having a good time). We writers are a product of the modern age, having almost without exception met through an online site. What a lovely thing. I will report back next week, but please be aware that most of what takes place in Buxton stays in Buxton, and yes, the local constabulary is aware!
This will be the longest car journey I have driven since body modification, so there must be good stuff going on. With this in mind, I have been listening to some classic Martyn as well as the new Courtney Marie Andrews. The radio show features lots of lovely stuff, particularly Conor Oberst in the classic album slot. As ever…
