Arisia, An Expected Journey with Surprises

I have learned over the years that no matter how much I prepare for a conference, regarding twists and surprises I am completely unprepared.  My family continues while I am away which in a lot of ways is comforting.  When I return I just have to find my place again and fit into the world.

But for now, I must prepare.  I will organize my panel notes.  Answer any last minute emails.  Write a wardrobe card so I will know what I’m wearing on each day and not over pack my bag.

What will I be doing at Arisia in Boston?  Let’s take a peek.  Oops, already the schedule has changed.

Vampires: Fear of the Other, Fear of the Body:   Fri 8:30 PM     Duration: 01:15

Scholars of vampire literature have alleged that early traditions of the vampire in Europe reflect fears of Jews, both religiously and racially. Yet over time, the vampire has morphed. Rather than representing fear of societal dilution, the vampire represents destruction of the individual body, and concepts of the “blood disease” as like unto AIDS began to enter the zeitgeist. Rather than express fear of the other, more modern vampire literature embraces the other.

Ray Bradbury: A Retrospective:   Sat 10:00 AM   Duration: 01:15

Few golden-age authors were as beloved as Ray Bradbury, and his death last year was a loss keenly felt. Come discuss your favorite Bradbury works, the uniqueness of his authorial voice, and some of his lesser-known gems.

Reading:  Crowley, Dawn & Sawicki     Sat 10:00 PM   Duration 01:15

Autograph: Crowley, Ewing & Linzner   Sun 11:30  AM   Duration 01:15

The Hobbit:   Sun 1:00 PM  Duration 01:15

Did *The Hobbit* really need to be turned into a new cinematic trilogy? Having seen the first film, are you eagerly anticipating the next installment or were you let down? Has director Peter Jackson recaptured the magic that made *Lord of the Rings* into a hit? How faithful is the film to Tolkien, and does it matter?

The Undead and the People That Love Them:    Monday 11:30 AM   Duration 01:15

The undead are everywhere these days. Books, movies and TV are full of shows about them. Where is all this coming from? Why do we love our undead monsters so much?

Well, it looks like lots of fun.  This year I will be busy socializing and at times writing.  My book edits will be turned in before I leave, but I will be working on the next manuscript while there.  I always write at Arisia because I find it so inspiring.

Now where did I put my Hobbit notes?

–Susan

Susan Hanniford Crowley

http://www.susanhannifordcrowley.com

Filed under: paranormal, Readers Conferences, Susan Hanniford Crowley, vampire books, vampires, Writer's Life