John Kilroy 10.22.01

Caught Gerald Stern on Sunday, at the Rattle Poetry Series at the Skirball Center. With respect to Mr. Stern and his awards, the work had zero effect on me. It was heartfelt, to be sure, but sure seemed to march along straightforward as prose, with an eventlessness in its subject matter. However, he's a National Book Award Winner, and I'm, uh, not. I heartily recommend this series. Some of the most lauded poets in the country for $5. About 65 people in attendance. Small, friendly space. Go to www.skirball.com for the schedule. The next reading is Robert Creeley, at 1 p.m., Sunday, November 4.