Marking the30th anniversaryof the nonprofitLiterary Arts in Oregon, this collection of10 lecturesfrom celebrated writers reanimates the humanistic argument that, far from being a “marginal cultural activity,” the production of serious literary fiction is an essential task.Since 1984,Literary Artshas welcomed many of the world’s most renowned authors and storytellers to its stage for one of the country’s largest lecture series. Sold-out crowds congregate atPortland’s Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hallto hear these writers discuss their work and their thoughts on the trajectory of contemporary literature and culture.  With eloquence, humility, and humour, contributors reflect both on their own creative processes and on literature as a whole. The beautiful language these accomplished authors employ exemplifies the unteachable quality of the true “tricks of craft.”Whether it’sWallace Stegnerexploring how we use fiction to make sense of life orUrsula K. Le Guinon where ideas come from,Margaret Atwoodon the need for complex female characters orRobert Stoneon morality and truth in literature,Edward P. Joneson the role of imagination in historical novels orMarilynne Robinsonon the nature of beauty, these essays illuminate not just the world of letters but the world at large.Serious readers should find a welcome reminder in this collection that great literature emerges from a receptive mind engaged with the “unanswerable questions” of human character and experience.