One Night Tribute to Barry Gifford

On Saturday, September 3rd, we celebrate the author of more than forty works of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, Barry Gifford. From screenplays, poetry, and librettos to his acclaimed Sailor and Lula novels (which include WILD AT HEART), Gifford’s writing is as distinctive as it is difficult to classify.

Born in Chicago while his parents were living at the Seneca Hotel, he also spent time in Havana, Key West, and New Orleans while growing up. This varied geography proved significant: throughout his career, Gifford’s fiction is born of the clash between what he has referred to as his “Northern Side” and “Southern Side.” Gifford has been recipient of awards from PEN, the National Endowment for the Arts, the American Library Association, the Writers Guild of America, and the Christopher Isherwood Foundation. He was also awarded Italy’s Premio Brancati. After David Lynch adapted his novel WILD AT HEART for film, the two collaborated again for LOST HIGHWAY and Hotel Room.

Our day of screenings begins with the Los Angeles premiere of the new documentary ROY’S WORLD: BARRY GIFFORD’S CHICAGO from filmmaker Rob Christopher. Select Barry Gifford books available for purchase next door at Skylight Books.