The real value of the Literary Society is that information exchange and sharing. When you sit down at your computer or with your notepad or notebook, it’s a solitary activity, but so many other aspects of writing involve others. Whether it’s brainstorming an idea, getting feedback on a first draft, finding a beta reader, or later, when you do move into the publishing sphere, an agent, someone who can help you with marketing and all those other things related to books and publishing that require others. Lori Hetherington
Florence has always been a cherished locale for writers who’ve flocked to it for centuries and continue to do so, eager to soak up the city’s charm and find inspiration. It is a legendary place, full of stories that capture the imagination, where you can walk in the footsteps of your favorite author, follow an itinerary based on one of the many novels or films set here, or spend time daydreaming in one of the city’s bookshops or literary cafés. What about today? How do creatives experience Florence right now? Why do writers continue to be drawn to it? What kind of community exists for those looking for kindred spirits?
I sat down to discuss these very questions with Lori Hetherington and Monica Sharp, respectively President and Vice President of The Florence Literary Society, a new association founded by local writers whose goal is to serve the international writing community through a rich and diverse series of initiatives, workshops, talks, meetings and brainstorming and silent writing sessions. Join Lori, Monica and me for a conversation about their personal stories, what happens when you get a room full of writers together, all the incredible things The Florence Literary Society is doing for our community, their many upcoming events, including the incredibly popular annual publishing day, coming to Florence in October 2025 (I’ll see you there!), the benefits of membership, and plans for the immediate and more distant future.
Biographies
Lori Hetherington thrives on words, connections, and emotions in their myriad forms. A translator, ghostwriter, and linguistic consultant, she published Tuscan Tales in 2020 and facilitates the monthly brainstorming session for writers at the British Institute of Florence. Her website: lhetheringtontranslation.com
Monica Sharp fell in love with Europe in 1993 and moved to Florence in 2016 with her husband and two kids. A curious spirit, incurable bookworm, and language fanatic, Monica writes poetry, essays and fiction. Her website: sharpmonica.com
Links
Florence Literary Society
Become a Member
Sign up for the Newsletter
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This episode is brought to you by Exclusive Connection, the Florence-based luxury travel company crafting bespoke experiences for travelers who crave something more than sightseeing, people like me who want a story, a hidden gem, a place so magical that it feels like it can’t possibly be real. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of your favorite author, literary character, or artist, Exclusive Connection offers extraordinary visits that will set your imagination free. Start your next literary adventure at exclusiveconnection.it
Podcast Producer: Andrew Niklas Curtis Production Intern: RJ PLUNKETT Recorded at Musikalmente Firenze Post-production: Lorenzo Maiani, Faminore Sound Agency
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