This month sees the birth of a new group in Kyoto: Writers in Kyoto (WiK).
This from the website sets out its aims:
Writers in Kyoto is a group of published and self-published English-language authors working or living in the city. It is run on a membership basis and its purpose is for writers to help each other by creating opportunities for promotion, book launches, readings, the exchange of information, and social events. We work in an informal way and are open to new ideas for projects, such as the ongoing ‘Books set in Kyoto’ feature. We are an independent group, but collaborate with Kyoto Journal and SWET (Society of Writers, Editors and Translators).
Wik’s first event will be a talk by the popular columnist Amy Chavez on being a freelance writer in Japan. The event will take place on Sunday April 19 at Pub House ROARS near Sanjo Bridge (see map). Doors open 4.30 and the talk begins at 5.00. ¥500 entry (free for those joining WiK). Drinks and food will be available afterwards, with time for socialising.
For those who wish to sign up for a WiK membership there are all kinds of perks:
* Featured writer spot on the website’s top page, on a rotation basis according to membership numbers
* Books advertised on the website
* Book extracts carried in the Featured Writing category
* Participation in a closed Facebook discussion group with access to archival material
* Discounted entry for WiK-sponsored events
* Participation in WiK social activities, such as get-togethers and literary dinners
* WiK backing for future book launches
* Eligibility for WiK public readings, to be held twice a year
For more information about WiK and their upcoming event please check the website: http://www.writersinkyoto.com or contact the facilitator, John Dougill.
I guess that’s the final nail in the Kyoto Blogger’s coffin? 🙁
Hi Florian,
No, Kyoto Bloggers isn’t dead, merely sleeping. I’m too busy to organize events this year, so have been trying to persuade someone else to do it. Positive noises have been made and there may be an event in the next couple of months or so… but it’s really out of my hands now.
That’s fantastic news, Michael – thanks a lot! (I miss those meetings, but I’d be too busy organizing one myself, especially from two prefectures away…)