“Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.”

As autumn gives way to winter, we invite you to slow down, settle in, and spend an evening exploring the words and wisdom of Henry David Thoreau.

Join us at Palace Wine Bar for the November installment of Voices by the Fire, hosted by Ryan Griffin and featuring local readers bringing Thoreau's timeless reflections on nature, solitude, simplicity, individuality, and the art of living deliberately to life.

Following the featured readings, the evening will open into an open mic, welcoming guests to share original poetry, prose, or other works inspired by Thoreau's philosophy and enduring literary legacy.

📖 Monday, November 23 | 7 PM
📍 Palace Wine Bar | 202 N. Main St., Rockford

Admission is free, with donations gratefully accepted. Reservations are strongly recommended, as seating is limited.

Whether you come to read, reflect, or simply listen with a glass of wine in hand, we invite you to gather by the fire and find a little inspiration in the words of one of America's great thinkers.