Asheville, North Carolina, where Thomas Wolfe drew inspiration for his literary works.
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UNC Asheville is set to celebrate the literary contributions of Thomas Wolfe with a series of events in Spring 2025. Kicking off on February 24, the festivities will focus on Wolfe’s semi-autobiographical novel, ‘Look Homeward, Angel,’ featuring discussions and presentations by notable speakers. The community read aims to foster connection and healing, especially after recent challenges faced by the city. Events will take place at the OLLI Reuter Center, with live streaming options available for wider participation.
Asheville, North Carolina, is gearing up for an exciting spring as UNC Asheville announces a series of engaging events centered around one of the city’s most cherished literary figures: Thomas Wolfe. The festivities kick off on February 24, 2025, at 11:30 AM and will focus on Wolfe’s beloved semi-autobiographical novel, “Look Homeward, Angel.”
Thomas Wolfe, who lived from 1900 to 1938, was an iconic American writer famed for blending autobiographical elements with fiction. His debut novel, “Look Homeward, Angel,” published in 1929, follows the life of Eugene Gant, a character influenced by Wolfe’s own upbringing in the picturesque city of Asheville. The story beautifully encapsulates the nuances of family life and captures the essence of place—something Wolfe had a unique gift for.
Visitors to Asheville can explore Wolfe’s history, including his boyhood home located on Market Street, which has been transformed into a captivating museum. Even more emblematic of his legacy is the angel statue in Pack Square, a peaceful nod to his literary impact on the region.
The mastermind behind the Common Word Community Read program, Wiley Cash, serves as the executive director of literary arts at UNC Asheville. He has lovingly selected “Look Homeward, Angel” for the spring read as a heartfelt gesture to support Asheville, especially in light of the challenges posed by recent storms, including Hurricane Helene. Cash believes that through writing and community involvement, residents can heal and connect.
All events for this literary celebration will be held in the Manheimer Room of the OLLI Reuter Center, with live streaming options available for those unable to attend in person.
The lineup of events promises to be both educational and entertaining. Kicking things off is a discussion by Tom Hearron, who will delve into Wolfe’s life and his significance to Asheville with a session titled “Thomas Wolfe at the Door: A Close Look at Asheville’s Famous Novelist.” This presentation is scheduled for February 19 at 7 PM.
Next in the lineup is Kayla Seay, who will illuminate the history of the Old Kentucky home known as “Dixieland,” which Wolfe references in his novel. This insightful presentation is slated for March 19 at 7 PM.
Lastly, Wiley Cash will lead a deep dive into the detective work of storytelling in his session entitled “How the Magic Works: Breaking Down the Craft Elements in Look Homeward, Angel.” This event is set for April 23 at 7 PM, making it a fantastic opportunity for writers and readers to explore the intricacies of Wolfe’s writing style.
Wolfe’s writing, renowned for its lyrical power and vivid sense of place, has a history steeped in controversy due to its personal depictions of his family and local life in Asheville. His other notable works include “Of Time and the River,” “The Story of a Novel,” “The Web and the Rock,” and “You Can’t Go Home Again.”
After a tragic fire in 1998 left the Thomas Wolfe House significantly damaged, it has since been restored, allowing visitors once again to connect with Wolfe’s legacy. The Thomas Wolfe Memorial State Historic Site, which recently reopened after weather damage from Hurricane Helene, invites the public to explore this important piece of Asheville’s history every Tuesday through Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
As the city reflects on Wolfe’s contributions to literature and its community, Asheville residents and visitors alike are invited to join in celebrating this literary titan. In doing so, they can nurture the bonds that hold their beloved city together, making it a true spring to remember!
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