Herrman & Murray Lead Center For Fiction's 'Chapter & Verse,' 5/10

Emmy Award-winning actor Edward Herrmann and Tony-nominee Brian Murray are set to take part in the Center For Fiction's 'Chapter & Verse' Series April 26 and May 10, respectively.

Thomas Hardy, Novelist & Poet

A popular and acclaimed novelist, Thomas Hardy was prolific, but he barely withstood the attacks on his book, Tess of the D'Urbervilles. Later, when scandal surrounded his masterpiece, Jude the Obscure, Hardy abandoned prose. At the age of 57, he began his concentration on verse. Now he is regarded as one of England's greatest poets. Edward Herrmann will read Hardy's famous words about a fateful place named Wessex.

D. H. Lawrence, A Visionary Called Pornographer

Spontaneity, instinct, vitality, sexuality, and censorship swirl through D.H. Lawrence's novels, poems, essays, and plays. His most famous book, Lady Chatterley's Lover had its first edition in Italy in 1928, but was refused publication in the United Kingdom until 1960. Despite trials of every sort, Lawrence continually explored the complexities of human behavior. Passages from stories and poems will be presented by Broadway star Brian Murray.

Thomas Hardy, Novelist & Poet is scheduled for April 26 at 7PM. D.H. Lawrence, A Visionary Called Pornographer will take place May 10 at 7PM. Both events are free, but please RSVP by calling 212-755-6710 or e-mailing events@centerforfiction.org.

Rarely does one writer master two genres. Only a few prodigious literary talents have created great works of both prose and poetry. In this series, we will explore and celebrate those writers. We'll hear these writers' poetry read by New York's finest actors, with commentary by poet Susan Kinsolving, author of The White Eyelash, Dailies & Rushes, and Among Flowers. This series is generously sponsored by Reba and Dave Williams.

The Center for Fiction, founded in 1820 as the Mercantile Library, is the only organization in the United States devoted solely to the vital art of fiction. The mission of The Center for Fiction is to encourage people to read and value fiction and to support and celebrate its creation and enjoyment. With all our resources, including our exceptional book collection, our beautiful reading room, our expanding website, and our ever-growing array of creative programs, we seek to serve the reading public, to build a larger audience for fiction, and to create a place where readers and writers can share their passion for literature.

Photo Credit: Pablo Pimienta