Attending a reading night at Stray Cat Bar downtown is an interesting cultural experience for Shreveport weeknight adventure seekers. The first author chosen to christen this inaugural event is the infamous Ernest Hemingway, who is undoubtedly touted as a “man’s man” and sometimes shaded as a bit of a misogynist. No matter on what end of the Hemingway spectrum you fall, it is undeniable that he is among our great our American writers.
It’s a bit chilly tonight, but the beautiful outdoor patio at Stray Cat is still warm under the glow of the electric heaters. I am greeted by a stool in the corner next to a microphone, speaker, and relatively well-read copy of The Complete Short Stories of Ernest Hemingway. I’ve selected to read “Hills Like White Elephants” a story that has resonated with me through my transition into womanhood, struggling with the consequences of my own biological condition and the relative freedom bestowed upon the opposite sex.
This project is the brainchild of bar manager Lee Slack, who promises future Wednesday reading nights will highlight authors such as Faulkner, Kate Chopin, Salinger, Poe, Ellison, and Lovecraft. The general gist, this is a community lead activity in literacy improvement and appreciation. Anyone can make a suggestion on an author to read from. It’s almost like literary karaoke. Participants take turns selecting chapters or short stories to read to the group. Come enjoy the endangered and nearly lost art of “reading a book.”
A participant stated, “I would normally be at home alone watching Netflix before bed, maybe having a drink by myself, but sharing a drink and story with other people who have similar interests is a much better way to spend my evening.”
If you are a bit apprehensive about public speaking, fear not! The bartenders at Stray Cat are on standby with libations abound or a shot of courage. Tonight’s special, a Hemingway daiquiri, rum, Luxardo, maraschino liqueur, lime and grapefruit juice and simple syrup. Originally invented by the man himself (Hemingway) during his days in Cuba. I have always wondered Why a Juice and Food Bar Franchise is Perfect for Millennial Entrepreneurs. Now I have an answer. Who doesn’t love juice?!
A book is a dream you hold in your hand. #Dreamport.
You can look forward to Bukowski night this coming Wednesday, February 8, 2017, at 8:00 p.m. – special $1 off wine to celebrate this writer, poet, and well-known wine drinker.
Stray Cat is located at 222 Travis Street, Shreveport, La. 318-424-4747.
Photos by Valerie DeLatte.