The American city where almost everyone seems to be writing a book
The American city where almost everyone seems to be writing a book
A Literary Atmosphere in Action
The American city where almost everyone – In the upstairs room of Prairie Lights Books, the usual display of books has been temporarily moved aside. A group of young patrons sits in plastic chairs, their attention drawn to the sound of Britney Spears’ “Lucky” echoing from the speakers. The song ends, and after noting that this marks the first time an author has been introduced by a DJ in the store, the host invites Candice Wuehle to the microphone. Wuehle reads from her latest novel, “Ultranatural,” a story that traces the meteoric rise and fall of a pop star reminiscent of Britney Spears. Her vivid portrayal of the “nerves and teen sweat” of talent auditions captures the audience’s imagination, setting the stage for her character’s eventual entrapment in the glittering machinery of fame.
Following her reading, a brief exchange with fellow author Camila Urioste unfolds before the session transitions into a Q&A. This moment reveals the unique charm of the space, where the ambiance is not just about books but about the energy of storytelling itself. While Prairie Lights may resemble any independent bookstore across the nation, its size, diversity of titles, and international recognition elevate it to a special category. The crowd, though, is what truly defines it. Many of these individuals are not just passive observers but active participants in the literary world, eager to explore the nuances of Wuehle’s craft and the process behind creating fiction.
The University’s Literary Legacy
The heart of Iowa City’s bookish culture lies in its University of Iowa, which celebrates its 90th anniversary this year. In 1936, the institution pioneered the first creative writing degree in the United States, building on decades of nurturing literary talent through broader academic programs. Today, the Iowa Writers’ Workshop stands as a global beacon, producing a roster of esteemed authors that includes Kurt Vonnegut, Philip Roth, Raymond Carver, Flannery O’Connor, and Curtis Sittenfeld. The workshop’s influence is evident in the steady stream of Pulitzer Prizes and National Book Awards earned by its alumni, a testament to its role as a crucible for American literature.
Even in 2008, when the town was officially named America’s first UNESCO City of Literature, its reputation as a literary incubator remained undeniable. The university’s status as a hub for legal and medical education only enhances its appeal, creating a unique blend of academic rigor and creative freedom. Students, a constant presence in the city, bring an energy that permeates every corner of Iowa City, from its historic buildings to its modern cultural venues. The Ped Mall, a network of pedestrian-friendly streets, often feels like an extension of the campus, buzzing with the ideas and aspirations of young minds.
A Contrast in Vibe
Despite its literary fame, Iowa City’s laid-back Midwestern charm sets it apart from the bustling metropolises of the publishing world. Surrounded by farmland and traditional Amish communities, the city’s progressive ethos feels like a regional anomaly. Even nearby Cedar Rapids, a larger city just 30 miles north, offers a different rhythm. While Iowa City thrives on its creative pulse, Cedar Rapids leans into a more conventional pace, underscoring the unique character of the latter.
Yet, the presence of the university has ensured that Iowa City maintains its position as the intellectual and cultural epicenter of Iowa. Before Des Moines became the state capital in 1857, the city was the region’s beating heart, earning it an imposing domed capitol and the foundation for what would become a prestigious academic institution. The university’s reputation for excellence in law, medicine, and the arts has only deepened over time, with its literary programs remaining a cornerstone of its identity. This blend of disciplines fosters a rich environment where creativity and critical thought coexist, shaping the city’s character in profound ways.
The Community of Creators
As the city’s creative spirit manifests in its streets, the presence of aspiring writers becomes almost palpable. Nialle Sylvan, owner of the Haunted Bookshop, captures this essence when she says, “Pretty much everyone in this town is working on a book of some sort or other, and you can feel it.” The bookshop, a labyrinth of second-hand volumes just north of downtown, may have a name that hints at the supernatural, but its charm lies in the tangible — a ginger cat named Escalus and the quiet camaraderie of book lovers.
Such a culture of writing extends beyond the walls of bookstores and classrooms. Jordan Sellergen, who now runs Little Village, a monthly news and arts magazine, recalls the city’s earlier allure. She remembers being drawn from Cedar Rapids as a child, eager to “hang out, smoke, and buy hippy clothes” while catching live music at Gabe’s, a rock venue that once hosted Nirvana before its rise to fame. These memories reflect a deeper connection to the city’s spirit, one that continues to inspire its residents and visitors alike.
Little Village’s pages offer a snapshot of Iowa City’s diverse interests, from local events to national trends. It distills the town’s easygoing nature into a publication that reaches far beyond its borders. Sellergen’s perspective highlights the city’s duality: “The way we present ourselves can seem conservative — there’s something about the small-town culture, we’re very polite — but we’re also very progressive.” This balance of tradition and innovation is what makes Iowa City a compelling destination for those seeking a unique literary experience.
Whether it’s the buzz of a book reading in a bustling bookstore or the quiet inspiration of a university campus, Iowa City offers a tapestry of creative possibilities. Its streets are not just lined with buildings but with stories waiting to be told, and its people are not just residents but contributors to a literary legacy that continues to grow. As the city moves forward, it carries the weight of its history while embracing the future, ensuring that its reputation as a literary powerhouse remains firmly rooted in its daily life.