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| John, taking questions from the audience |
While anything to do with Margaret Fuller would naturally attract a crowd of historians and Transcendentalists, we were delighted to see this event filled to capacity. Even those prompt souls who had arrived on time were left standing along the edges, craning their necks around bookshelves to get a better view of the podium.
Good thing we got there early. 45 minutes early! Which was just about enough time to find seats and then watch the rapid proliferation of eager, chatty guests.
And the reason for all these erudite enthusiasts? Well that can be explained by the presence of John Matteson, (accompanied by his lovely wife, Michelle) who is the author of a brand new book on Fuller and her short but significant life.
There have been lots of biographies written on Sarah Margaret Fuller - with good reason - but Matteson's approach of highlighting the many facets of Fuller is unique among those who have sought to encapsulate this singular woman's life. A daunting task, yet handled with brilliant aplomb in John's latest achievement: The Lives of Margaret Fuller.
Beginning with the prologue, John read a few excerpts from his book - a real treat to hear in the author's own voice. Some high-caliber questions from the audience followed, to which John responded with humor, charm and the indisputable impression that, here is a man who knows his stuff!
Yet, we especially love how accessible this book is. As Mr. Matteson himself remarked yesterday, he enjoys delivering solid, historical facts using the voice of a novel. And we're thoroughly enjoying reading it.
If you'd like to know more about this remarkable woman and why she's such an important figure in American literary history, we highly recommend The Lives of Margaret Fuller. The Concord Bookshop has a decent supply (at least, they did before the mob scene) so drop in or give them a call if you're looking for a copy.
For you Louisa fans, you might also be interested in John's other book, the superb Eden's Outcasts.
Oh, and by the way Mr. Matteson, as if we didn't admire you enough what with your Pulitzer prize, and your amazing writing and funny, smart personality, we just want you to know that our already good opinion of you sky-rocketed yesterday when you admitted to being a Red Sox fan. Who lives in New York.
Many thanks for the exceptional afternoon AND the awesome new book!
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| John Matteson was kind enough to pose with us & sign our books as we tried not to overwhelm him with our exuberant, geeky glee. |
PS - Don't forget about the next great event this Friday -
Historian Richard Smith will be presenting:
Click the lecture title for more info from the Lexington Historical Society
