Well I'll let you guys hammer that one out--I find myself a bit in the middle as I do get what Ed is saying, but I've also been to quite a few readings where I felt the writer could have used at least a brief coaching session on how to present.

(Try not to speak into your own chest; if the room holds more than about 35 people, be sure to use the microphone; don't rush; don't swallow your words; make notes on your text as to where to pause; look up once in a while--simple stuff like that.)

The one time I had the pleasure of listening to Stafford read, of course, I had zero criticisms to make. The man was a pro, and held the room in a quiet spell. I remain a dedicated fan of the writing, and though it's been some fifteen years already (?!), I still mourn his passing.

Herring405