Wit Meets Wisdom at Writers@Work Talks with Harrison Scott Key

CHATTANOOGA, TN — Chattanooga State Humanities Department’s Writers@Work program is delighted to announce the guest appearance of celebrated humorist and memoirist Harrison Scott Key. The event is planned for April 8 and 9 and promises a commemoration of the author’s fantastic work.

The Writers@Work Program and Featured Author

The Writers@Work series takes pride in showcasing Southern Literature across Chattanooga State campus. It introduces students to the work of select authors and organizes activities that explore their craftsmanship. Annually, every spring, the featured author visits Chattanooga to share insights with the faculty, staff, and students, and the public.

Past participants of the event boast a roster of nationally recognized and best-selling Southern authors, including Terry Kay, Jill McCorkle, Lila Quintero Weaver, Rick Bragg, George Singleton, Ron Rash, Robert Morgan, Tayari Jones, Tom Franklin, Beth Ann Fennelly, Daniel Wallace, Jericho Brown, Karen Russell, Ariel Francisco, and Chattanooga’s own Ishmael Reed.

This year, the spotlight is on the renowned humorist and memoirist Harrison Scott Key, known for works such as “How to Stay Married,” “Congratulations, Who Are You Again?,” and “The World’s Largest Man,” the latter bagging the prestigious Thurber Prize for American Humor. His prowess is not only limited to books as his humor and nonfiction pieces have graced platforms like Oxford American, Outside, The New York Times, The Bitter Southerner, McSweeney’s Internet Tendency, Town & Country, Salon, Reader’s Digest, Southern Living, Gulf Coast, and Creative Nonfiction.

Key takes pride in being a part of the Savannah College of Art and Design faculty, where he has assumed roles such as Chair of Liberal Arts, Professor of English, Professor of Writing, and Executive Dean. Besides academia and writing, Key has also displayed his comedic chops at many stand-up comedy venues across the U.S. He currently resides in Savannah, Georgia, with his wife and three children.

Reviews and Accolades

Key’s work has garnered admiration and praises from various corners. Kirkus Reviews praised “Congratulations, Who Are You Again?” by stating, “For all of his biting wit, Key’s love of writing is what shines through…” The review paints promise for readers who are always on the lookout for more from this talented author.

Publisher’s Weekly commended, “How to Stay Married,” noting how Key masterfully blends searing comedy with poignant reflection. “Key’s willingness to laugh at himself and share ownership of the couple’s marital issues elevates this… A fiercely memorable account of marital devotion against all odds.”

The New York Times spoke about “The World’s Largest Man” in high regard calling it “Funny as well as tender.”

Free Public Events Schedule

Date & Time: Monday, April 8 | 6 to 7 p.m.
Location: The Edney Innovation Center 1100 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402
Details: Invitation to writers! Come and discuss with Harrison Scott Key about using humor to write about tough topics. The event doesn’t require any advance registration and is free to the public. Learn more at chattbigread.com.

Date & Time: Tuesday, April 9 | 6 to 8 p.m.
Location: The Hunter Museum of American Art 10 Bluff View Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37403
Details: Join us at the Hunter Museum of American Art as ChattState English Professor Erica Lux interviews Harrison Scott Key about his life and latest book, “How to Stay Married.” The event is also free to the public. For more information on the program or these events, please visit the program’s website at chattbigread.com.

As the Chattanooga State Humanities Department’s Writers@Work program continues to advance Southern Literature, the addition and appearance of Harrison Scott Key speak volumes about the program’s commitment to its mission. Mark your calendars for this literary celebration brought to you by the HERE News Network.