Friday
June 8, 2012
7-10pm
Experimental Station
6100 S. Blackstone Ave.
Poet. Activist. Lyricist. Musician. Social commentator.
Gil Scott Heron served in all these capacities for a generation seeking a voice for change. Heron would likely see himself only as an astute observer and recorder of history but many heard his words as prophetic. Join us for an evening of music, poetry, performance, and discussion as we reflect on his life and legacy.
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Many thanks to Bill Savage for a wonderful and insightful evening of Chicago literary history. Nelson Algren’s trek through Chicago came alive as Bill presented stories of Algren’s time in Chicago, his connections with city life, and valuable memorabilia illustrating his connection with literary greats like Gwendolyn Brooks. Even Algren’s connection to the Despres family was shown through an autographed copy of Chicago: City on the Make given to the late Leon Despres. Great job Bill!
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-thumb-450x516-3348.jpg "Big Bill Thompson")
image credit- Gapers Block, March 2010
— written by Garrett Chado
When Nelson Algren’s book Chicago: City on the Make was first published in 1951 it received harsh criticism from the Chicago Daily News, who called it a ‘case for ra(n)t control.’ Perhaps they were justified in their outcries; Algren casts a light into the darkest streets and corners of Chicago and her history, in a way that only a malevolent lover can. Yet here we are today – the Chicago Daily News has been silent for 34 years and Algren’s work continues to live on with the publication of the 50th and 60th anniversary editions of Chicago: City on the Make.
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First published in 1951, Nelson Algren’s Chicago: City on the Make was scorned by the Chicago establishment because of its gritty portrayal of the city. Co-editor Bill Savage discusses his annotations to the 60th anniversary edition of this provocative work providing historic photos and updated info. As the city moves into a new era with a new mayor, does the picture still hold true?
Wed., May 23, 2012 @ 6pm
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