Tucked away behind the intersection of Bloor & Landsdowne, I sat amongst other keen writers for a weekly writing class in the early summer of this year. It was my first introduction to creative centre Academy of the Impossible, at 231 Wallace Avenue, and from that point on I became acquainted with the accessible, educational, quirky and awesome arts and cultural events that take place there.

This Saturday, September 8, from 1:30 – 3:30pm, is the start of a new literary salon series, appropriately named “Impossible Words”. Coolest lady Emily Pohl-Weary is co-founder of the centre, accomplished author, and creator of the Impossible Words series. The kick-off event to the series will feature Canadian author, poet, playwright, literary critic, and winner of The Governor General Award, George Elliot Clarke. Clarke will be reading from his recent verse novel, “I & II”.

Also at the event, members of the youth writing group Parkdale Street Writers will read their work, and interview Mr. Clarke. Members from the audience are encouraged to ask questions as well.

Interested participants can sign up for an open mic at the end, and there will be a PWYC lunch available, however entry to this awesome event is free! Whether you’re a newbie to literary readings, a writing student just back to class, or as published as Edgar Allan Poe, this is a great opportunity to see such an established author read in such an intimate and accessible way.

After hosting George Elliot Clarke, the next Impossible Words event takes place on September 22 and will bring in young-adult author and graphic novelist Mariko Tamaki.

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~ Becca Lemire

(Editor note: credit for attached photo of him, flyer has no credit) Photo Credit: Eric Wynne, Chronicle Herald