Editor’s Note: Here’s to Southern Literature Lovers

I love Eudora Welty. And I’m not quiet about it. Most people I know understand that not only am I a Welty scholar, but I am a big fan of her work. I wrote my dissertation on her first collection, conducted research on her manuscripts at the archives in Jackson, visited her home (which you should do if you’re ever in Jackson, but be sure to make an appointment and stop at The Dinner Bell for lunch along the way) and teach her work to my students. To be fair though, I like most Southern writers, teach their work regularly and much of my own writing feels Southern as well.

So I was very excited when Erin Bass, editor of Deep South Magazine, wrote an article about a literary tour of Acadiana. One, because I know that Erin’s depth of knowledge in Southern literature is extensive and two, for selfish reasons — I wanted to learn more. Erin discusses Flannery O’Connor, John Kennedy Toole, Ernest J. Gaines, James Lee Burke, Katherine Anne Porter and more. While New Orleans often gets most of the attention for literary accomplishments, the Acadian region is culturally rich and has had a magnetic pull on writers for some time.

We also have an Acadiana Field Guide written by Misty Milioto that offers lots of fun ideas for this summer in Acadiana. There are activities to do throughout the summer, both inside and out, including a few spots you might not have heard of, so check it out.

But back to Welty for just a quick minute. If you’re never read anything by her, please start with “A Curtain of Green: And Other Stories.” There might be some familiar stories in there (“Why I Live at the P.O.” or “A Worn Path”). Her entire collected stories are worth giving a read. There’s a linked collection, “The Golden Apples,” that has a few really iconic characters (looking at you King McLain and Virgie Rainey). If you’re into novels, check out “Delta Wedding” or “The Optimist’s Daughter” (she won a Pulitzer for this one). And if you’re a writer, read her for her craft. The attention to language and expertise at dialogue are master classes.

Alright, I’m stepping down from my Welty soapbox. Happy reading y’all!