The Peter White Public Library is set to host another installment of North Words and Music, the recurring literary and musical event that brings together storytelling, poetry, and live music. The upcoming show, themed "Crossroads," will take place on Wednesday, February 19th, promising an evening of reflective narratives and artistic collaboration.
Joining the conversation about the event are three of its key contributors: storyteller and writer B.G. Bradley, poet and event coordinator Marty Achatz, and musician Linda Smith. Each brings a unique perspective to the theme, showcasing how moments of decision and change influence artistic expression.
Bradley, who has been an integral part of North Words and Music, explained how the idea of "Crossroads" came to life. Originally considering a theme centered on roads, he was inspired by Achatz’s suggestion to take it deeper. "We are at such a crossroads as a country, as a people," Bradley said. "And people my age, well, we’re always at a crossroads—thinking back, looking forward, and trying to maintain what we have while moving on."
Achatz, known for his evocative poetry, also embraces crossroads in his creative process. "Every day is filled with them—even small choices, like what to have for breakfast, can shift the course of a day," he said. Poetry, he explained, highlights these moments and their impact. "Focusing on the small decisions helps us recognize the profound impact of even the simplest moments."
Smith, a longtime local musician, provides the musical backdrop for the evening alongside her son, Seamus Collins. As part of the event’s "house band," she curates music that complements the themes of the readings and performances. "One of the real opportunities with this show is that we get to unlock our art a little more," Smith said. "We pick songs that mean something to us, knowing that the audience may interpret them differently.
Check out a recent edition of North Words and Music:
Adding to the evening’s dynamic nature is actress Jacque Love, whose interpretive performances bring new dimensions to the poetry and prose. "Sometimes Jacque takes a poem in a direction I never anticipated, and it turns out better than I imagined," Bradley said.
A special guest for this installment is Public Radio 90’s own Nicole Walton, returning to the show for a second time. She will play a humorous, exaggerated version of a radio personality, offering a lighthearted touch to the otherwise introspective evening. "Nicole has a sonorous voice and a great sense of humor—she fits in perfectly with our unpredictable style," Bradley remarked.
Listen to Kurt Hauswirth's interview with B.G., Marty, and Linda:
The show, which begins at 6:30 p.m., will run for approximately an hour and a half. While the organizers encourage in-person attendance to fully experience the atmosphere, a live stream will be available via the Peter White Public Library’s YouTube channel.
Find out more about the event on Peter White Public Library's event calendar.
