By Dan Thompson
A new book being launched at the next First Friday event in Margate allows readers to follow in the footsteps of some of the world’s most famous authors on the journeys which inspired their greatest works.
Award-winning author Travis Elborough launches his new book The Writer’s Journey at Marine Studios, Margate in December.
The book explores the way that remarkable works of literature have been inspired by writers spending time away from their typical surroundings. From epic road trips and arduous treks into remote territories to cultural tours and sojourns in the finest hotels, this book explores 35 influential journeys taken by literary greats and reveals the repercussions of those travels on the authors’ personal lives and the broader literary landscape.
To accompany the launch, the monthly First Friday event takes the theme of ‘Journeys’. Dan Thompson’s studio will be open with a map-themed installation, and artists from Transit Collective will showcase work from their projects in Thanet. There will be a chance to create maps for D&D games, and the studio’s 3D printer will be making something travel-themed. And Margate Bookshop will be on hand to sell Elborough’s book.
The event will also see the launch of the studio’s new Writers’ Room. The room is a partnership between Kent Poetry CIC, Co-relate, and design firm HKD to create a dedicated work and development space for writers in Thanet. It will provide a hub for the area’s emerging literary ecosystem to grow. It will provide five desks for writers, and a programme focused on training, skills, and professional development.
Travis Elborough is an author whose previous books include The Bus We Loved, a history of the Routemaster bus; The Long-Player Goodbye, a hymn to vinyl records; and Wish You Were Here, a survey of the British beside the seaside. He also scripted the film How We Live Today, made by the band Saint Etienne.
First Friday was founded by Marine Studios in 2010 and happens on the first Friday every month. Traditionally, First Friday is the day for galleries to open new shows, for talks and workshops connected to exhibitions, and for the town’s arts community to show off what they do best.
Marine Studios have often themed the events around ideas that the studio’s resident designers, artists, and writers are exploring.
First Friday happens on Friday 1st December at Marine Studios, Albert Terrace, Margate. Doors open at 6pm, with a reading by Elborough at 7pm. Admission is free.
For more information about Marine Studios and the new Margate Writers’ Room, visit www.marinestudios.co.uk
