An acclaimed Canadian poet plans to reveal some of the influences shaping her work at an event called “The Life of the Writer”. Evelyn Lau has written 15 books, including 10 volumes of poetry. In addition, she is the UBC Library Irving K. Barber Learning Centre writer-in-residence.
Lau will join Word Vancouver executive director Bonnie Nish in conversation at 3 p.m. on Thursday (October 16) at the Irving K. Barber Learning Centre (1961 East Mall). It’s a free event, but registration is required.
“Whether you’re an aspiring writer or simply curious about her work, this event offers an intimate look at the craft, and inspiration behind one of Canada’s most beloved poets,” the Word Vancouver website states.
In addition, Lau will read from her latest poetry collection, Parade of Storms.
Lau was born in Vancouver and burst to prominence as a teenager when she won a Vancouver Sun essay-writing contest. This led to a meeting with Pope John Paul II.
In her later teen years, Lau was homeless, couch-surfing at friends’ homes, and using illicit drugs. Her journal entries from those days were published as Runaway: Diary of a Street Kid. It was adapted into a CBC TV movie starring Sandra Oh.
Since then, Lau has gone on to win the Milton Acorn Award, Pat Lowther Award, a National Magazine Award, and four Western Magazine Awards for her precise and evocative writing. From 2011 to 2014, Lau was Poet Laureate for the City of Vancouver.
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